O gauge tubular track rough ends at connection

[Flintlock76]

stuartmit

Have switched to Gargraves but I recall hearing maybe 20 years ago that Lionel was still running the same track making equipment.   What happened to it?  

Lionel made the decision to stop producing tubular track a good 10+ years ago, maybe due to lack of demand, maybe because they wanted to concentrate on Fastrack, I don't believe they ever specified the reason.  What happened to their track producing machinery is anyone's guess.

[stuartmit]

Have switched to Gargraves but I recall hearing maybe 20 years ago that Lionel was still running the same track making equipment.   What happened to it?  Maybe Menards bought it and is using it to make thinner product from  lighter gauge steel sheet. Too bad. At a show yesterday, many vendors said they left their track at home, and probably most of that was Lionel manufactured and presumably thicker. 

[pennytrains]

Not crazy about the Menards track I have.  The squared off track pins that come with it are the only ones that seat at all.  Anything beyond a slow running lightweight train pulls the sections apart.

[Road Foreman of Engines]

I don't have any Menard's track, but had a similar experience with K line 0-27 tubular. The edges at the rail joints had sharp burrs, scratching loco wheels. I filed each piece lightly to de burr the track. Just make sure to clean up all the file debris, in case you have any Magnetraction locos.

Paul

[BigAl 956]

I would take Flintlock a step further and say Menards track is barely servicable. It's made from thinner metal and does not properly grip track pins even if you attempt to close them tighter with a track pliers. 

[Flintlock76]

I don't see any reason why you shouldn't file those sharp ends smooth especially if it prevents wheel wear.

From what I've heard about Menards tubular track it's been described as serviceable but not up to the same quality standards of the old Lionel tubular track, or Marx tubular for that matter. 

[CWM53913]

I have noticed rough/sharp track ends where my O gauge tracks connect. I have Menards O gauge tubular 3 rail tracks and have notice more wear than expected on my locomotive wheels. I am wondering if light filing of the sharp ends, especially at the top where the train rides, would be helpful. My Lionel Fastrack is much smother at the connection points. Thoughts?