Track Cleaning

[kevrail]

Anyone got any ideas how to clean the tracks? Can it be done with meth spirits.

It is just the layout "Kilcoole" is DCC and It seems to have taken to stopping.

Any advice welcomed.

[Dave]

Hi Kevin, I use track magic. Its very good when used regularly

[irishthump]

Hi Kev,

 

Yeah meths will do the job. Any type of pure alcohol is perfect, just watch the fumes!

Best to get yourself a decent track rubber as well to remove any stubborn grime before wiping down with the meths.

 

DCC really needs the track to be spotless for reliable running.

[NIRCLASS80]

Don't use meths. Get some IPA with at least 90% alcohol content and simply apply to a piece of fine cloth or piece of kitchen roll and just rub along the rail and you will be amazed at the dirt that comes off. Try to avoid abrasive solutions as you only create more scratches to catch more dirt. IPA is available from local chemists or ebay works out the cheapest option. Alittle goes along way. Great for cleaning loco wheels as well.

[Hunslet 102]

Use meths with cotton buds for both the track and the wheels on the locomotives and rolling stock.As irishthump suggests,a track rubber for stubborn grime,but use it sparingly as it can tarnish the rails.

[irishthump]

Also Kev , since you mentioned DCC make sure you have plenty of power feeds to your track. One every 3 feet or so should be enough.

[NIRCLASS80]

Here is a video of the loco cleaning

 

[NIRCLASS80]

Here is one for the track although it uses the dapol solution rather than IPA but same technique

 

[kevrail]

Thanks guys How do I clean the locos? I never thought of that one??

[irishthump]

Thanks guys How do I clean the locos? I never thought of that one??

 

Just watch that video posted above, it's a very handy way to do it.

[minister_for_hardship]

Don't use meths. Get some IPA with at least 90% alcohol content and simply apply to a piece of fine cloth or piece of kitchen roll and just rub along the rail and you will be amazed at the dirt that comes off. Try to avoid abrasive solutions as you only create more scratches to catch more dirt. IPA is available from local chemists or ebay works out the cheapest option. Alittle goes along way. Great for cleaning loco wheels as well.

 

Thought it was India Pale Ale for a sec..

[gph2000]

May I suggest Nigel Burkin's book: Fine-Tuning-and-Maintaining-00-Gauge-Models

[kevrail]

Thanks guys more jobs for me to do..