Cleaning Model RailRoad Track
thanks to the Model Railroader Magazine
Whether you have a large model railroad or a small model train, clean track is a necessity.
When it comes to nuisances that interfere with running trains, dirty track is probably the number one offender. Running trains is the goal - not nudging stalled engines. By cleaning track regularly, you can keep your trains running smoothly.
Dirty track is caused by a combination of dirt and dust that accumulates on railheads. In addition, an oxide forms on both brass and nickel-silver rail over time. The oxide on brass rail inhibits electrical contact, but the oxide on nickel-silver rail is conductive. For this reason I recommend using nickel-silver rail.
An important factor in keeping track clean is eliminating sources of dust and dirt. Among the best ways to do this is to put your layout in a finished room. If you have a layout in a basement or attic, install a ceiling (solid or suspended) in the entire room or just over the layout to minimize the amount of dust and dirt that gets on the rails and scenery.
You'll also want to isolate the layout from sources of dust, such as workshops. Keeping windows closed also helps, as open windows let in a great deal of dust. Smoking also results in grime on the track, so if you must smoke, do it away from your layout.
Methods of cleaning track
Cleaners fall into two broad categories: track cleaning cars, which are designed to do the work for you; and products that require you to do the cleaning
Rub the block along the rails being careful not to bump into nearby details. Also use care around turnouts and other complex track areas, but make sure the points, frog, and other rails in these areas are thoroughly clean.
Follow this with a cloth, wiping the rails to remove any residue left behind from the cleaning block. Going over the track with a vacuum to suck up stray dust, dirt, and ballast is also helpful.
Don't use sandpaper or emery paper to clean track. The abrasives in these are harsher and leave small grooves in the railheads, which accumulate dirt, dust, and oxidation. The net result is impaired electrical contact.
Liquid track cleaners are another option. With these, you brush the cleaner on, then wipe the rails with a cloth. Some products are made specifically for cleaning track, such as the Lionel Maintenance Kit #62927, Bachmann Conductive Contact Lube #99981, and Atlas Model #193 (on order) Locomotive Maintenance Pack. Other fluids that work well are Goo Gone and TV tuner cleaner.
Keeping it clean
Once you have the track clean, the best way to keep it clean is to run trains frequently. Although I have no scientific proof, I've found - and I've talked to other modelers who agree - that metal wheelsets and track tend to polish each other, much in the way that well-used wheels and rail stay shiny in real life.
Model railroading is the most fun when you don't have to worry about operational problems, and keeping your track clean will make that possible.
