cleaning track with scouring pad

@Greg Bigg posted:

just how much scouring needs to take place--rub down the top of all 3 rails and wipe with clean cloth--it's not necessary to get in between rails etc.--you're just trying for a good connection between wheels, pickup and rails--thanks for input  Greg

Depending on the type of track you have. Lionel track is plated and you could wear through the plating with abrasives like a scouring pad. If you have to, use the blue scouring pad for non stick pans.

Would it be safe to say, that if rust has formed on top of the rail the tin plating has already been compromised?  Therefore removing the rust would probably remove any remaining tin plate.
Steve

@RideTheRails posted:

Would it be safe to say, that if rust has formed on top of the rail the tin plating has already been compromised?  Therefore removing the rust would probably remove any remaining tin plate.
Steve

Steve, I have Lionel Fastrack and I had a rust issue from some moisture that came through a nearby window. I cleaning the rust off it compromised the plating and exposed the metal below, so I replaced two sections of track that had the rust. So I would agree with your statement.

Not sure exactly what you mean by a scouring pad, but be sure never to use anything that contains steel wool or any other metal.

I don't  use any abrasives on track.    even not plated rail gets scratched, and then dirt collects in the scratches defeating the purpose of cleaning.

My choice is to  use a cleaning solvent on a pad.    Lots of solvents work including mineral spirits and alcohol.   Plain rubbing Alcohol is OK, but some pharmacies sell 91% alcohol.   Rubbing alcohol is only 70%.

If you have rust, you have a bigger problem than dirt, and maybe a very very fine abrasive is called for.   You could also try "naval jelly" a rust remover from auto parts or good old WD-40 - the all purpose fix it.

On my tubular track I used a scrubbing pad ( for non-stick pans) and then wiped, with a rag,  91 % alcohol. Cleaned up nicely and works well.