DIY Network

Model Train Track Maintenance Model Railroader editor shares advice and showcases products for cleaning your track. From "Workin' On the Railroad" episode DWRR-208L

Host Chris Chianelli is joined in the Workin' on the Railroad workshop by guest David Popp, who explains the different types of track used on model railroad layouts and the proper way to maintain the tracks.

Several track are types discussed and cleaning techniques shared, along with a demonstration of many of the products available on the market to clean your model railroad tracks.

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Types of Model Tracks

• Set Track—This is sectional track that comes with most model railroads. It's metal tracking that's mounted to a plastic tie strip. The curves are all pre-made, and the straight sections come in set sizes. You can build the model railroad rails by following a blueprint.

• Embedded Rails—This is the next step up in model railroad tracks. The rails are embedded and have a more realistic appearance. They have locking rail joiners that make assembly a breeze. If you don't have a lot of room for a model railroad, this type of track is perfect because it's easy to put together and take apart.

• Flex Track—This "flexible" track comes in 3' lengths for the more advanced model railroader. The appeal of flex track is that it can be curved to just about any shape you desire.

No matter the choice of tracking you make, maintenance is still an issue.

Set Track

Embedded Rails

Flex Track

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Keeping Your Track Clean

Materials:

Bright Boy
Track cleaning car
Pratex
Goo Gone
toothbrush
Exacto knife

1. When cleaning the track with a Bright Boy (figure A), simply lay the block on the track and move back and forth like using an eraser.

2. When using a cleaning car (figure B), put a cleaning solution such as Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol on the cleaning wheel, which is connected to the car.

3. Pratex (figure C) can be used on the rolling car as well.

4. The buffing wheel (figure D) is the last step, and it's used as the track-cleaning car runs.

Notes and Tips:

• It's best to use a Bright Boy as soon as possible to remove things from the tracks when doing any track improvements.

• Using a toothbrush and Exacto knife can help in removing things that have already gotten hard on the track. Both are great for digging out debris and dirt.

• There are a number of cleaning cars available, and they are great for routine maintenance. But for heavy-duty cleaning you'll have to put some elbow grease into it.

• Be sure to test your track before cleaning with a white cloth.

• If your locomotive stalls (figure E) or runs rough, note the spot because it will need cleaning for sure.

RESOURCES :

Magazines and Books on Railroading
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
Website: www.modelrailroaderbooks.com

Small Tools and Accessories
Micro-Mark
Website: www.micromark.com

Model Railroad Products (All Scales)
Wm. K. Walthers, Inc.
Website: www.walthers.com

Track Cleaning Cars
Axtec Trains
Website: www.aztectrains.com

Model Railroader magazine
Website: www.kalmbach.com

National Model Railroad Association
Website: www.mnra.org

GUESTS :

David Popp
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
Website: www.kalmbach.com