Protecting your track?

[Anonymous]

Is there any kind of protective coating you can put on steel track to keep it from rusting after the tin plating is worn off? Everything I can think of to protect the track (polyurethane, lacquer, etc.) would also prevent current from flowing to the locomotive's wheels. [:(]

[fwright]

WD-40 is actually a water displacement formula not a lubricant (WD-40). Applied reasonably, it does not affect electrical conductivity. I use it frequently for the wiring plugs and receptacles on boats and RVs to prevent corrosion. It doesn't last forever - Practical Sailor did some tests a few years back with steel wool in a salt water atmosphere - but it actually did better than the competition at preventing rust. The humidity and salt levels of the atmospere will determine how long the WD-40 will prevent rust. To keep rail rust free without trains running, I would expect reapplication every couple of months in areas where rust is a problem.

my thoughts, your choices
Fred W

[phillyreading]

Have you thought of using stainless steel track? It don't rust as fast, if does rust, as tin plated track.
Lee Fritz

[Dr. John]

There are some preventive measures you can take, such as installing a de-humidifier (expensive) or using cartons of Damp Rid in your layout area (cheaper, but less effective). The problem with WD-40 or Wahl's Clipper Oil, etc. is they attract hair, dirt, etc, that can gum up your engine - not a good thing. Also not too good for traction.

[Anonymous]

You might be able to use a zinc galvanizing paint (paint with zinc in it).

Daniel Lang