I want to build a track cleaner similar to a CMX but only hand pushed and alcohol droped on by a dropper or something. The pad that touches the rails should be replaceable as it gets dirty. I already have a CMX but it is not easy to fill and regulate the flow of cleaning solutions. My layout is point to point BTW.
I use an eye dropper to fill my CMX and the norm is just under one full turn from closed for about 5 drops per minute.
Mel
Modeling the early to mid 1950s SP in HO scale since 1951
My Model Railroad
http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/
Bakersfield, California
I’m beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.
If you are handy you can buy just the CMX skid pan assembly and mount it to a car, probably in a manner similar to the masonite (hard board) track cleaning cars.
See here: http://tonystrains.com/product/cmx-skid-pad-assembly-kit-ho-scale/
Thanks for the info, I didn’t know that was available. Now I can make a second mop up car.
Mel
Modeling the early to mid 1950s SP in HO scale since 1951
My Model Railroad
http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/
Bakersfield, California
The one I purchased a few months ago came complete with a syringe and a short length of plastic tubing for ease of filling. Best investment that I have recently made.
For an interesting track cleaning machine idea, if you have MR Archive or access to the July 1953 issue a felow used a motor in a boxcar with a worm gear driving an abrasive drum. Probaby a bit harsh, but pretty neat to see these old ideas.
Bob Bochenek
Ive made several types of track cleaning cars i use the roller type cars for mop up
using a strip of paper towel wrapped around the roller and taped in place
i use a wet pad beneath a dummy loco along with a CMX car followed by a roller car caboose for mop up
i used an old electric motor for the roller
you can see them here