Cover

All Aboard!

Start With The Basics

Why The Track Is So Important

How Does The Power Supply Work?

Analog and DCC Explained

Layout Options Explained

Locomotives And Rolling Stock

What Should You Start With?

How Do You Create A Good Layout

More On Layouts and LDE

How to Create Realistic Scenery

Explain Weathering Techniques

How To Repair Problems

BONUS SECTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Glossary of Important Terms

Model Railroad Yard Design Explained Step-By-Step

Model Train Layout Track Plans

Garden Railroads

Mastering An Airbrush Step-By-Step

More Model Railroad Resources



5 Track Cleaning Methods Explained
How To Repair Problems
Solutions to 4 common problems
When To Seek Expert Help
Here are some important questions to ask the repairer
Manufacturer/Supplier List

5 Track Cleaning Methods Explained

Keeping the track clean takes just a few minutes on the average model railway. Keeping tracks clean makes for trouble free running and helps keep debris from your locos wheels and motors, ensuring good electrical pick up and hassle free operating sessions. If any of these parts are dirty then electricity can’t do its job and the set will fail to run efficiently. If your set is running poorly (or not at all), it could be a sign that the track needs cleaning.

Cleaning the track is not usually difficult but it is important. It is over to you which method you use as modelers seem to have their own preferences. Here are some methods that can make a big difference to the smooth running of your set:

1. Use A Pink Eraser.

A pink eraser (typewriter eraser) is probably the most commonly used method for cleaning track. They are cheap to buy, easy to use and generally work well. You simply lightly rub the tops of the rails with the eraser. However, there are a couple of drawbacks. Erasers tend to leave behind a dirty rubbery mess, which can eventually get into the locomotives mechanisms.

Erasers can be particularly troublesome around point-work, because the rubber gets into every nook and cranny. This can cause the point blades not to make contact on the rails and result in unreliable running.

Quick Tip:

There is little point in cleaning track if you don't clean all loco and rolling stock wheels at the same time.

2. Methylated Spirits Or Industrial Alcohol

Some model railroaders prefer meths for cleaning. It can work well, but the colored dye in it can sometimes remain on the rails after cleaning. An industrial alcohol is probably as good as anything if you wish to use a liquid.

Just lightly soak some some meths or industrial alcohol into a rag and lightly rub away the dirt that has accumulated. Make sure the room is well ventilated and DO NOT SMOKE while using this method. Likewise, do not use this method if there is a naked source of heating in the room. And, store it safely away from children, pets or heat…and carefully dispose of any cleaning clothes etc.

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3. Use Brand Name Cleaners

Use an organic-based cleaner such as Goo Gone (US/Canada)…it uses citrus oils of some sort, and works very well. Goo Gone is great for removing dirt and oxidation from the rails without harming any of the plastic parts. Use a track-cleaning car of the roller type, or else a lint-free rag. Use a dry rag to wipe up the remaining dirt after wiping with the cleaner-wetted rag.

Commercial products available for cleaning include: Formula 49, Bright Boy, Goo Gone and Wahl Clipper Oil. Wahl Clipper Oil has been around for a long time and not only cleans the rails but also improves conductivity.

4. Attach A Pad To A Car

Because the pads aren’t permanently attached to the car, you can remove them at any time. These pads won’t clean the track if it’s especially dirty, but they help maintain track already cleaned. The pads have to be sanded clean before each cleaning (or operating) session, otherwise they end up just spreading dirt.

Another way to maintain clean track is make your own inexpensive track cleaning car using a small piece of Masonite hardboard (or similar). You then attach (glue with epoxy) it to the bottom of a car (wagon) with a couple of nails or pins so that the pad can slide up and down, and slides along the track. The pad should have rounded edges. The weight of the pad is enough to hold it to the rails, so it polishes the rails as the car moves along.

5. Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Blocks

Abrasive cleaning blocks can scratch the rails. Never clean the track with wire wool as it will leave strands, which will cause a short across the track and trip the controller. Also, never try to clean the wheels or electrical contacts with 'wire wool'. Being made of steel the wire wool is attracted by the magnet and will cause damage. It also causes electrical shorts within the locomotive.

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Quick Tip:

Running your trains at least once a day helps keep the rails from getting dirty in the first place, so that's a fun way to keep rails clean, and feels less like work.

Quick Tip:

If your loco stops or slows down in the same spot on the track frequently here's what to do:

1. Thoroughly clean section of track

2. Check for "dead spots" a bad track connector or glue from scenery can disrupt power flow.

3. If problem persists track may be too large for the size of transformer/power pack.

Interesting Fact:

The Rocket was designed and built by George Stephenson of the Liverpool and Manchester railway in 1829. A common misconception is that the Rocket was the first steam locomotive. Truth is; the first steam locomotive to run on tracks was built by Richard Trevithick 25 years earlier, however it was not a financial success.

In 1829 Stephenson's Rocket won a competition for locomotive power at the Rainhill Trials on the Manchester & Liverpool Railway. All the other competitors broke down so a true result is a bit hard to tell; however in winning Rocket did fulfill the key requirement of the contest that a full simulated 56 mile (90-km) round trip under load be completed with satisfactory fuel consumption.

However, the Rocket's major claim to fame is that it was the first 'modern' locomotive, because it introduced several innovations that were used on almost every steam locomotive built since. George Stephenson had built steam locomotives before 1829. The Rocket was in some ways an evolution, not a revolution.

Rocket used a multi-tubular boiler. This resulted in more efficient and effective heat transfer between the exhaust gases and the water. Previous boilers consisted of a single pipe surrounded by water. The Rocket also used a blast-pipe for the first time. This used the blast of exhaust steam to induce a partial vacuum to pull air through the fire.

Stephenson's Rocket was capable of hauling a coach filled with passengers at 24 mph (39 km/hr). It pulled a load of three times its own weight at the rate of 12.5 mph (20 km/hr). The Rocket could haul 12.75 tons at 14 mph. It set a world speed record of 35 mph.

The Rocket still exists and can be seen in the Science Museum, London. There is also a replica in the National Rail Collection at York.



How To Repair Problems

What do you do when your locomotive or cars derail or breakdown? Well, the first bit of advice is not to panic. Usually the fault is in the track, the wheels, or the couplers, and it is likely that you can fix it yourself.

Here are solutions to 4 common problems:

1. What if derailments are common?

Inspect carefully to see if something is tilting the track in the area where derailments occur? Any abrupt changes in the angle of the track can cause derailments. Also check to see if there is something on the track level that is striking the train and causing the derailment? A flashlight will come in handy when examining the track. Look vertically down on the track and horizontally across the track. If you find even a small amount of debris, carpet fuzz, pet hair, floor dirt, or dust… then, clean the track. Surprisingly, small bits of debris are big enough to be the culprits, particularly with N and Z scale trains.

Quick Tip:

Ensure all loose track pins have been removed from the track before running trains, as the magnets will attract the pins into the motors and potentially cause damage.

2. Is one section of track out of alignment?

Make sure all sections are firmly pushed together, and that the joints between sections align smoothly without any kinks.

3. Is a wheel defective or broken?

Dropping a locomotive is not recommended, but can happen to even the most of experienced modelers. Accidents like that are common causes for a broken flange. A wheel on a locomotive or car with a broken flange won't work and must be replaced. The same goes for a wheel that is twisted, or one that looks like it has been forced too close together or too far apart. The solution is always the same – replace the affected wheel.

Quick Tip:

Never pick a locomotive up with your finger tips touching the running gear on the sides of the locomotive because it can damage the alignment of the running gear.

4. Is there a defective coupler in the train?

Is your coupler broken or stuck? Couplers must be free to swing from side to side (some are sprung to one side, or made so they return to center). Broken or stuck couplers can force cars off the track. If a coupler won't budge when you try to move it from side to side, then don't force it. More than likely it will need professional repair.

When To Seek Expert Help

Depending on the skills you acquire, you will be able to fix most day-to-day problems if and when they happen. However, there are times when it is best to seek outside help, particularly when the cause of the problem is not obvious, or if you risk doing damage to your set. In those circumstances it is usually best to call on a professional.
There may be someone in your local railroad club that you could trust with the repair job, but be careful not to ruin a friendship if the repairs don't go as planned. Sometimes it is better get an independent person to do repairs for you. It's more businesslike and that way you insist on a guarantee or dispute anything that you are not happy with. It is not easy arguing with friends, especially when they are just trying to be helpful.

If you are looking for someone to do repairs, then your local phone book is usually a good place to start. Look under the category “Hobby and Model Supplies.” The other option is to ask at the hobby store where you purchased the set. The set (or locomotive) might still be under guarantee, or the store might offer repairs, or they might be able to suggest someone who could help.

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Fixing model trains requires considerable knowledge and experience, so it is important that the person carrying out the repairs knows what he or she is doing. You wouldn't want your best locomotive (your pride and joy) damaged beyond repair. So, it is important to check the credentials of your repairer carefully. If a fellow modeler recommends the repairer to you, then ask your friend why he or she recommends the person.

Here are some important questions to ask the repairer:

  • Do you offer free, no obligation consultations?
  • Do you do in-house repairs or contract them out?
  • How long have you been doing model railroad repairs?
  • Will you provide a written quote?
  • How long will the repairs take?
  • Do you stock the replacement parts or will you have to order them in?
  • Do you offer a written guarantee?

Click The Link Below To View The

Wiring for Two Train Operation
Step-By-Step Tutorial


http://www.model-railroad-resources.com/two-train-wiring-members.html



Click The Link Below To View The

Double Track With Crossovers
And Industry Spurs Wiring
Step-By-Step Tutorial


http://www.model-railroad-resources.com/double-track-wiring-member.html



Click The Link Below To View The

Wiring A Wye And Reversing Loop
Step-By-Step Tutorial


http://www.model-railroad-resources.com/members-wiring-wye-tutorial.html


Interesting Fact:

In August 1845, the town of Scarborough (the UK’s oldest and one of its most popular seaside resorts), welcomed its first ever tourists to arrive by train. That historic first steam journey was on the world’s most famous steam icon, ‘Flying Scotsman.’ More than a century and a half later, ‘Flying Scotsman’ lead the celebrations to mark the 160th anniversary of the event.

It was 160 years ago that more than 15,000 people turned out for the opening of the York to Scarborough railway line. Residents lined the streets of Scarborough, to be serenaded by singers and entertained by brass bands, welcoming the very first steam train to Scarborough’s newly constructed wooden platform.

The steam trip to Scarborough, by ‘Flying Scotsman’ runs along the 42-mile route to the coast. It has been the backbone of the local tourist economy for 160 years.

 

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Manufacturer/Supplier List

There are plenty of manufacturers of train sets, parts and supplies. Here are some popular sites to check out (If for any reason clicking the links doesn’t work, you can simply copy and paste the links into your browser to access the correct web page):

Accurail, makers of HO trains: http://www.accurail.com

Acme, model railroad supplies: http://www.acmemodel.com/railroad.htm

Aristo-Craft, G models: http://www.aristocraft.com

American Models, S trains: http://www.americanmodels.com

Athearn, HO scale : http://www.athearn.com

Atlas Model Railroad Co., HO scale: http://www.atlasrr.com

Bachman, N, HO, On2-½, large scale: http://www.bachmanntrains.com

Bowser Manufacturing, N, HO, and O scale models:
http://www.bowser-trains.com

Cherry Creek Hobbies, model trains HO scale and model railroad supplies: http://www.cchobbies.com

Discount Trains, model trains and railroads at discount prices: http://www.discounttrainsonline.com

Global Outlet, Brass Railroad Models in HO and O scale: http://www.globaloutlet.com

International Hobby Corp.HO scale: http://www.ihc-hobby.com

Internet Trains, Over 100,000 different model trains, train sets, model railroading supplies & accessories available: http://www.internettrains.com

Kato USA, HO, N scale: http://www.katousa.com

K-Lile Trains, O scale: http://www.k-linetrains.com

LGB of America, large scale: http://www.lgb.com

Lionel, O scale & accessories: http://www.lionel.com

Life-Like, N, HO scale: http://www.lifelikeproducts.com

Märklin, Z, HO, No. 1 scale: http://www.marklin.com

Micro-Trains Line, N, Z scale: http://www.micro-trains.com

Model Power, N, HO scale: http://www.modelpower.com

Model Railroad Dealers on the Net, listing of dealers both USA and rest of the world: http://www.tttrains.com/links/dealers.htm

Model Tech Studios, Unique Structures, Details, 3D Backgrounds and Rollingstock in N, HO and O Scales: http://www.modeltechstudios.com

Modratec (Australia), An innovative blend of technologies allows the average modeler to design and build fully interlocking mechanical lever frames: http://modratec.com

MTH-Railking, O Gauge Electric Trains: http://www.mth-railking.com/

Pacific Mountain Scale Shops, Highly detailed and very prototypically accurate polyurethane models: http://www.pacificmountain.ca

Rail Yard Models, Manufacturer of cast resin rolling stock kits for post 1960 era railroads: http://www.railyardmodels.com

Railway Recollections, Specialize in narrow gauge resin model railroad kits: http://www.railway-recollections.com

ROCO, European model trains: http://roco.com

S-Helper Service, S scale: http://www.showcaseline.com

Train Track, model railroad supplies: http://www.traintrack.net

Walthers, Supplies for the model railroad enthusiast. Walthers also have a newsletter: http://www.walthers.com/

Williams Electric Trains, O Gauge Electric Trains: http://www.williamstrains.com

Wm. K. Walthers, HO scale: http://www.walthers.com

These websites are well worth visiting, as they'll keep you up with what’s available, as well as pricing.

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© 2006 Robert Anderson, Market Leaders Ebooks, all rights reserved