About Aztec Manufacturing

The Main Man

John Claudino is “Mr. Aztec.” He wears all the hats, from President to Janitor. John’s been a “train nut” his entire life and is dedicated to bringing train enthusiasts top quality model railroad products.

Aztec products, from an innovative line of track cleaners to limited edition micro brew cars, are unique. They are available exclusively through Aztec. In order to keep prices down Aztec does not sell through dealers / distributors or do any outside contract work.

Articles About Aztec

Las Vegas Review Journal: IN DEPTH: Model railroad hobby turns to niche business for retiree by Jennifer Robinson

Reno Gazette-Journal: MIN helps manufacturers stay in busineess

Nevada Appeal: "Made in Nevada" Small Business Reports a Profit in 2003 by Becky Bosshart

Company History

John started up Aztec (which stands for A to Z technology) as a machine shop in 1976. Originally located in California's Silicon Valley, Aztec's clients included companies from the electronics, aerospace and medical fields.

Aztec produced its first train-related product, a transformer bracket, when John was unable to find what he wanted at hobby shops. In 1987 he bought a pad printer and began producing N scale freight cars in prototypical paint schemes not available from the major manufacturers at the time. The original Track Star track cleaning car was introduced in 1991. Since moving to Carson City, Nevada in 1996 Aztec has been producing only model train products.

Meet the Webmaster

This is Karen Claudino, also known to some of you as “Mrs. Aztec”. She’s the one to email any problems regarding this site. Of course, if you’d rather praise these pages, she'd be happy to hear it!