@tripleo posted:Visual aspects aside, what actual affect does rust on track have on the operation of a train? I'm thinking of 3 rail O/O27 track. Does it add resistance to the current path? How detrimental is it to the contact between the track itself and the pickup rollers and wheels? Just curious.
Rust is a poor electrical conductor especially at the low voltages on which model trains operate, so yes it does add significant resistance.
Rust is also an abrasive which will cause accelerated wear on the wheels, traction tires, and pick-up rollers. When it flakes off and gets stuck in the lubricants, it will add friction, accelerate wear (especially in exposed gears) and steal motive power.
If you like the look of rusty rails, painting their sides would be a better long term solution than allowing actual rust to continue growing and spreading.
