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track problems

Posted by walter englert

on Wed, Mar 15 2006 2:20 PM

I have a 30+ years mini-trix layout. Some of the joints where the tracks mate seem to have corrision. Normal track cleaners dont seem to do the job . They cant get under the rail joiners.Short of ripping the tack out what can I do?
Thanks, Walt

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Posted by chad thomas

on Wed, Mar 15 2006 4:37 PM

Simple answer...Solder the railjoiners.

Welcome to the forum Walt. For model issues you should go to the Model Railroader forum. Just klick on the index above and scroll down to the MR forum.

Posted by ndbprr

on Thu, Mar 16 2006 8:20 AM

I doubt it is corrosion. More likely it is pitting casued by arcing. I agree that you need to do one of two things. Either solder the joints leaving an occasional one unsoldered for expansion or solder a feeder wire to every section of rail. If this is going to be a big job I would suggest you look into one of the resistance soldering units. It will make short work of the job and generates heat so quickly the damage to plastic ties will be absolutely minimal.