N Scale Track Cleaning Car

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I have had with cleaning track with a bright boy or rail zip. I have heard about track cleaning cars, but never checked into them. Are there any Good N Scale track cleaning cars on the Market? I would greatly appreciate any help provided.

Thank You

2

I use the CMX track cleaning car from Tony’s Trains. I’m in HO scale, but they also make one in N.

I have subways on my layout, so there are tracks which are pretty much inaccessible. I’ve also got a substantial amount of above-ground track. The CMX car is a great product. Yes, it’s expensive, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone who owns one say they didn’t like it.

3

I picked up an N scale CMX track cleaning car on Ebay for pretty cheap. Works like a charm. I’ve long ago given up using any abrasive track cleaning blocks like a Bright Boy on my track. Those kind of products just grind the surface of the rail leaving it scratched and scarred. Over time they do more harm than good.

Frank B.

Dorval, Canada

4

I use the Aztec MFG “Predator” model track cleaning car. I’ve had very good luck with it.

5

Thank You for the Suggestions.

One last question what type or types of cleaning fluid would be best to use with this rail cleaning car.

Again Thank You!

6

I use lacquer thinner with my CMX. They recommend either that or isopropyl alcohol, but they say that the lacquer thiner is the more “aggressive” cleaner.

The CMX has a nice needle valve to control the flow of cleaner. Keep it light, particularly with the lacquer thinner, because too much will hurt the plastic ties. Pick a day when you can keep the windows open, as you don’t want to breathe this stuff in too high a concentration. I only have to clean my track 3 or 4 times a year.