Cleaning Old Stock & Track

[Anonymous]

I just received an old Lionel set with an extensive amount of track. The Track is slightly rusty and the rolling stock (plastic) is very dirty. What would be the best way to clean both?
Thanks in advance!

[Anonymous]

You might get some ideas from MR Feb 02 edition,
"Track Cleaning" and by going to the following site
for tips, procedures,solvent cleaners.
http://ttx-dcc.com/technews/clean_machine.htm

That's an underscore_line between clean_machine in the URL

[Anonymous]

The track can be cleaned very nicely with 400-600 grit black emory paper. DO NOT USE STEEL WOOL IT WILL CAUSE SHORTS IN THE TRACK. As for the rolling stock try giving the pieces a good brushing with a soft 2" paint brush. I would not reccomend using any kind of cleaner. solvent or soap on them as the paint and lettering may have become very fragile over the years. Perhaps dampening the brush with a little water would help but be very careful. Take Care and Have Fun..Vic

[Anonymous]

Thanks so much for the advice! The track is pretty rusty along the side of the rails and the ties after being stored in the attic for 50 years, but it is still in usable shape. The loco is a 1956 Lionel 44 ton switcher (Burlington Route) and works good. Just all dusty and dirty. The train has a lot of sentimental value for a friend of mine and I want to include it in my layout. Thanks again for the tips!

[Anonymous]

Nothing puts a better shine to the plastic than a little armor-all on a soft paper towel. Its harmless to the paint as long as the paint is not red lettering and you only need to wipe on/wipe off. Scotchbrite pads and a squirt of WD-40 on the track will make the rust go away without harming the track. You might want to put a little hobby oil on the gear of the train if it has been sitting for a long time.