Yes Joe, good observations. I attempted to model the above tunnel photo along with taking the eye off that ugly middle rail as best as I could. My upstairs HVAC carpeted (dry) room may have also added to my non-cleaning and operational success. Just have to deal with a few tiny spiders, webs and fine dust issues once a year or so.
As for 2r, I could hardly keep my H.O's running. 2R DC track oxidized faster than I could wipe it down.
Environment is key.................