help cleaning tubular track

[danrunner]

I have some old tubular O27 track w/ oxidation and rust on it. What is the best way to clean the entire piece of track?

Is there a substance i could "dip" the track into that will eat away the years?

Thanks,

Dan V

[Dr. John]

Dan, nothing beats some emory cloth and elbow grease. I am personally not a fan of using liquid cleaners or degreasers - moisture can get inside of the tubular rails and cause rust. WD-40 can help loosen up tough grime or Radio Shack "Tuner Cleaner" if you can still find it. Some folks use Goo be Gone, but I've never tried it.

My main caveat is NOT to use steel wool!!! Those tiny metal filings will get into the motor and gears of your engines.

[laz 57]

Scotch brite pad works fine.
laz57

[hugoroundhouse]

I had a load of very rusty Flyer track. I looked around the shop and saw that I had used all my elbow grease remodeling my entryway, so I took the lazy man's way out -- bought a 6 inch brass wire wheel and put it on one side of my benchgrinder. Wear gloves and safety glasses and you'll have clean track in no time.

Jim E.