I have read extensive discussion about the use of No-Ox as a means of reducing track maintenance and enhancing electrical contact between rail and wheel. Has anyone tried using the product in rail joiners and/or on the contact tabs on turnouts? I have never used No-Ox, but based on what others have described it seems that using it on joiners (in lieu of solder) and tabs would be beneficial. Any thoughts?
Dante
I have used the No-Ox liquid from Craftsman Specialty Supply. I used it on brass rail and to clean commutators and like it very much. Never put it inside railjoiners though.
But it’s not a forever solution, you have to periodically reapply. But if you clean inside the railjoiners and the sides/bottom of the railends with it; and you have a tight fit, it should last longer than otherwise.
But if this is a long term layout, I would solder.
Enjoy
Paul
Dante, if you ask 10 different Model Railroader how to keep the tracks clean you will have 10 different answers.
On the rail joiners, I solder mine that are in a turn (I use flex track) a only solder problem joints in straight section.
Way I keep the rest of my main lines clean is I pull a Train Man track cleaning car in one of my trains at all time. Many will go yuck, but works well for me. They are cheap at around $19.00 and while they look just a little off I can live with them. (40 foot box cars but look short in height)
On seldom used sidings, that where NO-OX may work well for me. But I am more of a main line kind of guy, that is why my sidings are seldom used.
Cuda Ken
Hi,
Like the man said, everyone has their own methods… I used No Ox decades ago and it was ok, but so was alcohol on a rag pushed along by my finger.
My latest layout has all rolling stock with metal wheels, and I believe this to be a big help in keeping the track clean. But more so is that it is in an enclosed climate controlled room, with the door only open when trains are running.
Everyone that’s been in the hobby for awhile has their own preferred cleaning treatments, and I really think that what works for YOU is the best.
ENJOY !