Microsoft Train Simulator Route Editor
This page provides dozens of free route downloads for Microsoft Train Simulator, plus links to third parties offering routes for download. More than 100 routes are also available on CD/DVD from Amazon.com and other retailers. A Man Tries His Best to Get Hit by a Train- CSX Switching Lehigh Cement in Richmond, VA - Duration: 8:34. Railroad Videos 1,550,794 views.
This page features utilities, updates, enhancements, and tutorials for Microsoft Train Simulator. For other add-ons, including rolling stock, routes, and activities, see our Microsoft Train Simulator Contents Page.
| RailDriver - Drive your train simulator with realistic throttle, brake, reverser and switches. Works with Train Simulator 2019, Trainz, Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS), and computer driven DCC systems. |
AceIt v1.3.4 - Produces Kuju ACE format texture files from many common image formats; intended to be used as a replacement for the makeace and makeacewin tools; by Scott M. Miller (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 1893 KB)
Acela Express - Engine and Brakes Upgrade - Modified .eng file for the Acela which allows you to drive your train as fast as 500mph; by Georgi Ikonomov (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 6 KB)
Acela Modified Break Sounds - Modified airflow/ tankfill/ break sound for the Acela with lowered volume; by Jan Rasmussen (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 307 KB)
Activity Editor Q&A - Questions and answers for using the MSTS activity editor, in PDF format; compiled by Rich Garber (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 52 KB)
Activity Master - Gives users more control over all MSTS activities, including the weather, season, start time, and most importantly, all rolling stock (cars and engines) used in the activity; available for $14 from Skyline Computing
Adding Engines Tutorial - Tutorial for adding the numerous repaints of 3D Trains F7A Diesel to MSTS, in MS Word format; by Richard Lamp (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 17 KB)
Aliases for MSTS Cabview and Sound Directories v3 - Aliases to save space when adding new locomotives to MSTS; by Akira Yoshida and Tony Lonsdale (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 114 KB)
Aliases for MSTS F7A Cabview and Sound Directories - Aliases to save space when adding new locomotives to MSTS; by Jos Willebrand (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 8 KB)
BR Sound Effects v1.0 - Accurate sounds for the BR Class 37, 47, and 55 Deltic; by Tom Oliver (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 341 KB)
Class 37 Horn Sounds - For use with James Hunt's Class 37 diesel locomotive; by Gary Cox (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 85 KB)
Class 47 Horn Sounds - For use with James Hunt's Class 47 diesel locomotive; by Gary Cox (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 95 KB)
Columbia Falls Map - Layout of Columbia Falls showing all sidings and points (switches), in bitmap format; by Rob Weststrate (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 21 KB)
ConBuilder (latest version) - Utility for building and testing new MSTS consists; available on CD for $30 (US)
Conrail Logo Sheet - Conrail images to use in skinning Conrail locomotives and rolling stock, in Adobe Illustrator 3 EPS format; by Michael MacFall (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 35 KB)
Conv3ds Interface for MSTS - Standalone program for converting 3ds source files, requires no DLLs other than those already present in Windows (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 105 KB)
Convert .ace Files to Reworkable Formats - Text file explaining how to make a .bmp or .tga of an .ace file; by Daniel Mrawek (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 3 KB)
Cutbank Yard Map - Map showing switches and sidings in JPEG format; by Ron Peruit (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 59 KB)
Dash 9 Horn Sequence - Sequenced horn for the Dash 9 - long, long, short, long; be sure to backup your existing Dash 9 horn file before replacing it with a modified version; by Kyle (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 363 KB)
Departure Sound Modification - Replaces the 'okay to proceed' with a conductor whistle; by Patrick Klappich / Vladimir (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 97 KB)
Diesel Smoke Replacement - Replaces the default diesel locomotive smoke texture, by 3DTrains (Downloads from author's site - File size: 1413 KB)
EMD SD40 Sounds - Alternate EMD SD40 sounds for use with certain locomotive add-ons, originally released by Rob Easterday (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 2559 KB)
End of Train Markers - Enables markers in proper location and on AI trains; by Dennis Gauci (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 10 KB)
End of Train Markers for Select Passenger Cars - Also shows these lights when used with AI trains; by Dennis Gauci (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 33 KB)
EngMod v2.0 - Utility to modify the physics characteristics of default and add-on locomotives; by Derek Morton (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 2168 KB)
Exhaust Fix for GP38 Locomotive - Instructions for modifying inaccurate exhaust placement on the GP38 locomotive; be sure to backup your .eng file before making modifications
F7 Horn Kit - by Jim Edmiston (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 179 KB)
Fix for Constant Ditch Lights on GP38 - Instructions for disabling the constant ditch lights on the GP38 locomotive; be sure to backup your .eng file before making modifications
Flying Scotsman & Golsdorf Braking System Update - Basic Level - by Richard Dawson (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 12 KB)
Flying Scotsman & Golsdorf Braking System Update - Intermediate Level - by Richard Dawson (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 12 KB)
Fred Light Position Fix Coordinates - Includes all necessary information to place the flashing FRED lights in the correct position near the coupler for all the original US Freight cars that shipped with MSTS; by Steven Boese (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 75 KB)
Friction Calculations for Add-on Locomotives - Friction calculations for 14 additional locomotives based on the methods of Joseph Realmuto; by Bob Boudoin (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 2 KB)
Friction Values for MSTS - Modified .eng and .wag files for all MSTS rolling stock to give much more accurate values for train friction; included a simple program to enable designers of new and reskinned rolling stock to calculate the correct values; by Joseph Realmuto (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 271 KB)
GE Dash 9 40W .eng Files - 4000 horsepower GE Dash 9 6 axle .eng files for use in Dash 9 models; by Bob Boudoin (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 7 KB)
General Electric Loco Sounds - by Maple Leaf Tracks (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 3398 KB)
Genesis Locomotive Enhanced Lighting - Includes a readme file in MS Word format with installation instructions and details of the lighting changes; by Rob Easterday (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 6 KB)
Gotthard Route Map - Map of the Gotthard add-on route in PowerPoint format; by Uwe Springer (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 58 KB)
GP38-2 Dynamic Brake Sound Addition - Update for the .sms sound files; by Bill Mahan (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 932 KB)
GP38-2 Engine File - Modifies lit number plates, dim and bright driving lights, and non-flashing ditch lights; by Scott Borchardt & Matt Brewer (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 11 KB)
GP38-2 to a GP39-2 Upgrade - Engine physics updates to upgrade the included GP38-2 locomotive to a GP39-2 with the 12-645 engine which produces more power and uses less fuel; be sure to backup your existing GP38 files before making modifications (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 6 KB)
Hancock Air Horns - To be used with the NH Commuter Train found on this site in the Passenger category; NH signature in the 50s and 60s and lived on into the PC; by Chuck Schneider (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 343 KB)
Headlight fix for Acela and HHP-8 - Modification to the HHL and Acela *.eng files to correct the default light positions and colors; by David Chapman (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 10 KB)
Headout View Fix for Flying Scotsman Locomotive - Instructions for correcting problems with the left-side headout view on the Flying Scotsman locomotive; be sure to backup your .eng file before making modifications
HHP-8 Locomotive Sound Update - Modifed sound files for the Amtrak HHP-8 locomotive; by Don Aimer (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 143 KB)
Hisatsu Line Route Map - Map in MS PowerPoint format; by Gene Maisano (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 11 KB)
Hjorring-Aalborg Route Map - Route map in PowerPoint format; route available as a separate download from this site (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 46 KB)
Horn Sound Files for F7 Locomotive - Digital capture of a Leslie Single Chime airhorn; Reskin requires the New York Central F7 locomotive from 3dtrains.com; by Rob Easterday (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 979 KB)
Innsbruck - St. Anton Route Map - Map in MS PowerPoint format; by Gene Maisano (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 13 KB)
Innsbruck Map - Layout of Innsbruck and West Innsbruck showing all sidings and points (switches), in bitmap format; by Rob Weststrate (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 50 KB)
J-3 Empire State Express Whistle Fix - Allows short or long whistles; by Rob Easterday (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 188 KB)
K5LA Horn Recording - Correct horn for the Amtrak locomotives, and some of the freight; by Matt Donnelly (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 251 KB)
Light Update for Dash-9 - Fixes and adds some lights to the Dash-9 in MSTS; readme file details updates; by Marc Howell (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 9 KB)
Lighting Patches for the GP-38, SD-40, and Dash 9 Locomotives v1.1 - Corrects most of the major shortcomings of the original locomotives for the Marias Pass Route for MSTS; readme file contains detailed information of changes; by Rob Easterday and Steven Alexander (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 383 KB)
Locomotive Physics Update v3.0 - Physics changes and corrections to the GP38, SD40, SD50, SD60M, SD70M, SD80, SD9043, SD90, and AC4400 locomotives; based on actual performance data of the real world locomotives from GE and EMD and data found in the actual BNSF timetables and handbooks; be sure to backup your original .eng files before replacing them with modified versions; by Scott Borchardt (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 71 KB)
Locomotive Readme File Template - Template for creating readme files with instructions for installing locomotives; by Chris Caswell
Logbuch 1.0.0.2 - Tool to enter and print train orders for use with MSTS - in GERMAN; by DBASIxX (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 430 KB)
MakeACE Interface for MSTS - Standalone program for converting bmp or tga source files, requires no DLLs other than those already present in Windows (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 105 KB)
Marias Pass Route Map - Map in MS PowerPoint format; by Gene Maisano (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 18 KB)
Marias Pass Route Schematic - 6-page track schematic of the Marias Pass route, in MS Excel format (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 12 KB)
Microsoft Train Simulator 2019
Marias Pass Whitefish Yard Map - JPEG reconstruction of overhead screenshots via the route editor; by Charles Burgess (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 424 KB)
Marias Pass Yard Maps - Yard maps in PDF format; by David Lee
Marker File For All UK Rail Lines - Edited from rrline e00 data; by J. Vizoso (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 177 KB)
Material List for MSTS v1.2 - Bitmap graphic to help in finding train content and create new skins; by Eric Turpin and Paul Philippe Casanova (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 638 KB)
MenuMod v1.2 - Improves Activity and Route Editor menus, by 3DTrains (Downloads from author's site - File size: 117 KB)
Microsoft Knowledge Base - Train Simulator - Microsoft's online knowledgebase of known problems and solutions for MSTS
Microsoft Train Simulator Update - Official MSTS update released April 2002, fixes numerous technical and operational issues; by Microsoft (Downloads from steam4me.net - File size: 7 MB)
MSTS Bin - Unofficial Microsoft Train Simulator upgrade features day and night cab texture switching, front and rear cab switching, front and rear light switching, and more (Downloads from author's site - File size: 4505 KB)
MSTS Help Files for Editors and Tools in Word Format - by James McKenzie (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 169 KB)
MSTS Keyboard Commands Cheater Card - Printable card to assist in remembering keyboard commands, in Excel and Bitmap format
MSTS Startup Logo Disabler - Simple instructions for disabling the MSTS startup sequence to speed the loading of the simulator; by Cage (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 1 KB)
MSTS Train Icons - Train icons for Microsoft Train Simulator; by Al Wheeler (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 28 KB)
NewRoads v4.0 - New road textures required by many add-on routes available at this site (Downloads from author's site - File size: 17 MB)
Northeast Corridor Route Analysis - Excel (7) format listing all the stations (size and number of platforms), their milepost position, express or through train options, and track configuration at each stage as well as advice notes; by Mike Hill (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 14 KB)
Northeast Corridor Route Map - Map in MS PowerPoint format; by Gene Maisano (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 16 KB)
Port Ogden and Northern Route Maps - Includes a general overall map of the route plus 8 location specific maps (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 551 KB)
Route Creation Help for MSTS (updated) - Help file for using the route editor, in PDF format; compiled by Rich Garber (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 803 KB)
Route_Riter - Free suite of over 110 MSTS utilities, many aimed at route developers; by Mike Simpson (Downloads from author's site - File size: 12 MB)
Scale Gauges - Provides the exact dimensions of a piece of rolling stock in Microsoft Train Simulator; by Clem Tillier (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 128 KB)
SD40-2 Modified Sounds - An .eng file and sound folder with correct turbo sounds to be used with any EMD turbo loco - generated from Soundtrax diesel throttle system; by Andy Hockin (Downloads from author's site - File size: 6246 KB)
SD60M Physics Update v2 - .eng file replaces the original (SD60M by Del Ray Bascom et al.) to give SD60M specification values such as HP, MTE, and weight; by Bob Boudoin (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 8 KB)
Seam Eliminator Utility - Eliminates terrain seams caused by the import of alignment errors in merged DEM data; by Wes Downs (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 1426 KB)
Settle & Carlisle Analysis - Excel (7) format listing all the stations (size and number of platforms), their milepost position, express or through train options, and track configuration at each stage as well as advice notes; by Mike Hill (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 9 KB)
Settle & Carlisle Line Map - Layout of the complete Settle & Carlisle Line showing all sidings and points (switches), in bitmap format; by Rob Weststrate (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 130 KB)
Settle & Carlisle Route Track Plans - Set of track layout maps for every siding, yard, and lay-by; by Mike Hill (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 286 KB)
Settle-Carlisle Station Photos - Photos from Kirkby Stephen and Garsdale stations taken on 30 June 2001; by George Banks (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 60 KB)
Settle–Carlisle Structures - Photos of Ribblehead Station as depicted in MSTS; by George Banks (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 317 KB)
Shape File Fixer - Checks uncompressed S files for potential problems that may crash MSTS, then attempts to fix the file; by Paul Gausden (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 61 KB)
Shape File Manager Version 2.3 - GUI interface to the FFEDITC utility for compressing and decompressing shape files, by Paul Gausden (Downloads from author's site - File size: 12 KB)
Shape Viewer v2.2 build 237 - Viewer for Microsoft Train Simulator and Trainz model files; by By Paul Gausden (Downloads from author's site - File size: 3204 KB)
SNS: Simulator Naming Standard - Naming standard for Microsoft Train Simulator trainsets and consists; by Markus Freytag (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 6 KB)
Southern Pacific Horn - Sound files to replace the default GP-38 horn in MSTS (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 157 KB)
Spotter Cam Hack Version 2 - Update that allows the user to zoom the spotter cam (view #4) way out and view the train and surrounding areas from a distance; be sure to follow the included instructions carefully and backup any game files before replacing them with modified versions; by Pete Hawk (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 3 KB)
St. Anton - Innsbruck Route Analysis - Excel (7) format listing all the stations (size and number of platforms), their milepost position, express or through train options, and track configuration at each stage as well as advice notes; by Mike Hill (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 10 KB)
Steam Locomotive Bells v1.1 - Adds a bell to the Pacific and ESE steam locomotives (turn on and off with B key); by Andrew Styles (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 967 KB)
Steam Smoke Replacement - Replaces the default steam locomotive smoke texture, by 3DTrains (Downloads from author's site - File size: 418 KB)
SwitchList Generator - Creates new activities with new work orders (switch lists) from existing activity templates; available for $12 from Skyline Computing
Thomas the Tank Engine & Gordon the Blue Express Engine Whistle Sounds - by Chris Eisner (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 117 KB)
Tokyo - Hakone Route Map - Map in MS PowerPoint format; by Gene Maisano (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 14 KB)
Tokyo-Hakone Route Analysis - Excel (7) format listing all the stations (size and number of platforms), their milepost position, express or through train options, and track configuration at each stage as well as advice notes; by Mike Hill (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 130 KB)
Trackmonitor (Semi-Transparent) - Semi-transparent track monitor replacement; by Alex Hall (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 232 KB)
Train Store v3.2 - Utility stores routes and activities efficiently so that MSTS does not read redundant information on startup; removes problem of too many consists, and improves start times with no MSTS configuration changes required; by Tony Formoso (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 4799 KB)
Train Store v3.22 - Contains bug fixes for v3.20; requires that previous version is first installed (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 947 KB)
Transparent Driver Aids - Replacement track, switch, and station monitors with transparent backgrounds; by Cytrain (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 115 KB)
TSUnpack-Fix - Solves a problem with incorrect registry entries that can cause TSUnpack to be unable to install packaged activities; by Thomas Tydal (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 4 KB)
Washington Map - Layout of Washington and East Washington showing all sidings and points (switches), in bitmap format; by Rob Weststrate (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 30 KB)
Whitefish Yard Map - Layout of Whitefish Yard showing all sidings and points (switches), in bitmap format; by Rob Weststrate (RailServe.com MSTS Download - File size: 38 KB)
XTracks 3.20 - Extra track sections for route developers, also required before using many add-on routes available at this site (Downloads from author's site - File size: 18 MB, or 30 MB for developer version)| Sponsored Links | Related RailServe.com Categories Search 19,000+ sites in all 180 categories! |
| Platforms: | PC |
| Publisher: | Microsoft |
| Developer: | Kuju Entertainment |
| Genres: | Simulator / Train Simulator |
| Release Date: | June 1, 2001 |
| Game Modes: | Singleplayer |
All aboard the Kuju Express.
Microsoft’s Train Simulator is as self-descriptive as their legendary line of civilian flight simulator programs. You’re almost guaranteed the same response if you look at the creative force behind the program – Kuju Entertainment, best known today for their very own line of train simulator games bearing the same name, sans ‘Microsoft’. UK-based Kuju started their own train sim series with Rail Simulator (2009), but before that they were hard at work with Microsoft, creating what would be one of the most lasting non-flight simulators to hit the PC.
Just about everyone who sees and hears a locomotive roaring up-close for the first time can’t help but be gripped by either a sense of awe or fright, sometimes in equal measure. You don’t need to be an engineer to realize there’s a lot of power tucked away in those machines, but Microsoft’s Train Simulator, or MSTS for short, lets you do just that, placing you behind the controls of one of these intimidating engines.
You get to drive a host of locomotives from different periods and do your best to arrive safely to your destination as part of several realistic activities (both passenger and freight) spread across four countries – North America, Great Britain, Austria and Japan. As gripping as this may (or may not) sound, MSTS doesn’t have much in the way of raw excitement, but rather meticulous multitasking and a nice hard look at the driver’s manual; but, as with most commercial flight simulator games, it also offers a great sense of satisfaction once you’ve mastered the technical know-hows needed to drive your trains.
So how hard can it be, right? Nothing you can’t pick up in an hour or so. The very basics of driving are clearly laid out in three interactive tutorials, one for each engine type, describing specific workings and driving technicalities.
A total of nine locomotives are featured in MSTS (two more are added with the 1.2 patch, hundreds more scattered online), and these range from timeless steam locomotives to diesel / diesel-hydraulic and modern electric engines. Among these you’ll find the American Dash-9 diesel engine, the GP38-2, Odakyu 7000 Super Luxury Express, the British ‘Flying Scotsman’ of the LNER, or the Golsdorf 380, also known as the ÖBB kkStB 380, an Austro-Hungarian engine that serviced the Orient Express between London and Paris. The actual physics holding these heavyweights on track is rock-solid, as is the amount of actual control you have over each engine (one that’s even greater in some respects than Kuju’s much more modern Rail Simulator).
Each locomotive handles quite differently, and learning how to tame each beast is part of the fun – electrical engines, such as the elegant Amtrak Acela, drive high-speed passenger trains that can top 165 MPH, and are also among the most user-friendly and easiest to drive. Diesel locomotives require quite a lot more care than their high-tech counterparts, and steam locomotives are the most challenging of them all, though doubtless also the most rewarding. All of these engines, but especially steamers, are in constant need of corrections and careful adjustments as you go, all while keeping in mind that you have a timetable to keep track of while respecting safety procedures (such as keeping within the speed limit or using the whistle when approaching cross-roads). Applying the correct braking pressure during stops becomes an art form. At the end of each activity you get a final score reflecting your performance.
Here’s the cab view of a steam locomotive. Every gauge, lever and valve can be used.
Fortunately, you don’t need to know everything about everything when prepping and driving a train. A more lenient beginner mode will relax things considerably, but getting into the thick of it is largely the point of the experience. A host of interface aids will help with your situational awareness, such as reviewing your timetable or map. The cabs featured in every engine look quite complete, made up of pre-rendered 2D shots. Most dials, levers and displays are functional on diesel and electric locomotives, and most of the valves and levers on steam locos can be manipulated (non-essential stuff like manifold shut-off valves, ashpan levers, water gauge levers or measurement taps cannot be used).
The popularity of train sims gradually took off after MSTS, and the range of stuff available for this old timer is broad indeed. If anything, the interactive tutorials and detailed manuals will have you learning more stuff about trains than you could ever have imagined, its educational value alone being worth the ticket.
System Requirements: PII 266 Mhz, 32 MB RAM, 4 MB Video, Win 9x/ME/2000, 1.8 GB HDD
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