[lownote]

As far as I can tell, the need to clean track is heavily dependent on the local environment. I notice really big differences between how much I have to clean in Spring vs summer, for example. I have about half stainless and half brass, and I notice that in the spring, the stainless is no better than the brass. But last fall, the stainless was WAY better. I have no idea why. Could be pollen on the track? Could be trees and plants giving off sap? Could be the humidity? I just notice significant variations based on the seasons.


In my experience it's really really easy to eliminate the problem you're having--just get an aristo track cleaning car. I run the car around a few times and that takes care of it. If I run the trains for an hour or so then I will usually run the track cleaner around a few times again. Just stick it on the end of a train. It's very effective, it's easy, and it's not expensive. Sometimes I wipe the pad on the track cleaning car with laquer thinner, to clean it, but otherwise it's really maintenance free

 

[lownote]

I just tried it and it caused serious wheel slippage on my layout--to the point where my bachmann "annie" could not make it up the grade. Hope it doesn't last too long

 

[lownote]

I just tried the CRC 2-26 again, on a long level part. I put a little on the track and ran a train back and forth. It's extremely effective at loosening oxidation, but then you have to get it of the rails. I'm counting on one of the violent late afternoon thunderstorms we typically get around here


I use the sanding pole now and then--I had one from some drywall work we were doing. It's still much easier, in my mind, to just run a track cleaning car around. Easier and you are actually running trains while you clean.



You might find that you have less trouble as the seasons change. Two weeks ago I had to run the track cleaner a lot. Now I barely need it.