Author Topic: Track Question (Read 661 times)

jwcoving · « **on:** October 27, 2014, 09:53:27 am »

I have an old train (+60years) set that I haven't unpacked in years. It is a O gauge (three rails per track) and These tracks were subject to corrosion and the pins were rusted and some very hard to keep in the track thus it didn't make a good connection.

I have seen some newer tracks that seem to be a better quality to alleviate the above problems but I don't have a name or brand of the best product out there.

I would appreciate any suggestions / recommendations for new track and if old tracks can be restored to their original condition.

Thanks

TrainLarry · « **Reply #1 on:** October 27, 2014, 01:23:59 pm »

Welcome to the forum!
Depending on how much rust is on the track, it can be cleaned up with a Scotchbrite pad from your local hardware store. The pins can be cleaned up also. Make sure to pull the pins out of the track with a pliers, and clean both ends of them. Slightly squeeze the bottom ends of the track together where the pins go in, using a pair of diagonal pliers, or you can get track pliers from your local hobby shop that are made for that job. Clean, tight track that is over 60 years old will work just as good as new. Extremely rusted track can be cleaned up using the electrolysis procedure that museums and professional restoration companies use. Very inexpensive, easy to use, and 100% effective.
There are other track systems out there from Atlas, Gargraves, and MTH to name some. The track systems are not interchangeable for the most part. Oxidation will affect all track systems, unless you get stainless steel track, but at a premium price.

Larry

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