A backscene is an essential component of a model railway layout, providing a visual backdrop that enhances realism...
Valid to UK only - excludes oversized items
A backscene is an essential component of a model railway layout, providing a visual backdrop that enhances realism...
The underside colour of a Royal Air Force (RAF) Spitfire is an iconic aspect of its camouflage and getting it right...
In the world of scale modelling, greeblies (or "greebles") refer to small, intricate details you add to your models...
The difference between plastic cement and plastic glue lies primarily in how they work and the type of bond they...
Balsa glue is a specialised adhesive designed specifically for bonding balsa wood. It's often the preferred choice...
Dirty track can result in locomotives failing to run properly on a layout. If dirt or grime is present on the track then this can be transferred onto the wheels of a locomotive which will then potentially impair the electrical contact between the track and the motor of the locomotive.
One of the most common means of removing deposits of dirt and grime is a track rubber. These have a slightly abrasive surface which is effective at cleaning the track and removing unwanted grime. Track rubbers are hard-wearing and small which means they can be effectively used on all areas of the track including those difficult-to-reach sections. Although abrasive the track rubber is a forgiving medium that can be used frequently without any adverse effects on the track. It is useful to use this in combination with a small, handheld vacuum cleaner to suck up any resultant debris.
Track Magic is a liquid-based cleaner specifically formulated to clean tracks and can be used either as an alternative to or in combination with a track rubber. The fluid is applied by a pad to the track which helps not only to clean the surface but also provides a more conductive surface which enables locomotives to run more smoothly. Track magic can also be easily applied to more delicate sections of track such as points where the over zealous use of a track rubber may cause damage.
Some modellers also use track cleaning rolling stock. These items are specifically configured with small track shoes with an abrasive surface which can prove very effective at keeping track surfaces clean. All of the above methods are effective cleaning mechanisms and although they can each be used as a stand-alone medium, when used in combination they offer a very effective cleaning solution for all areas of the track.
Click here to receive the tips weekly in your mailbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.