solvents are very effective but we need to consider the toxicity
and flammability of these products before we use them.
While Varsol works the best it, along with lacquer thinner and
regular paint thinner are all highly flammable. These products
should only be used outside, which isn’t too practical with
most of our layouts inside. Acetone is almost as effective and
is much less toxic. It is highly flammable because it evapo-
rates quickly but if used in small quantities should be safe
enough to use.
Based on the experimental results, my product of choice is
acetone. It is readily available at the paint store or places like
Home Depot, and is inexpensive. Avoid nail polish remover as it
contains oils and perfumes.
There is some risk of damage to paint and plastic with ace-
tone, but if used in moderation, like a small amount on a cloth
applied to the rails, there shouldn’t be a problem. Goo Gone
was effective but left a residue that I then had to clean off
with acetone. And it costs more! Some people have reported
removing Goo Gone residue with a clean dry cloth, but it is still
an extra step.
Problem #3: Application How to apply
track cleaner.
The simplest answer is a clean, lint free cloth. Why is lint-free
important? Lint (and hair from the dogs, cats and people in
the house) gets into the mechanisms and accumulates on the
wheel contacts. That is why a regular vacuuming of the tracks
is advisable.
Track cleaning - 4
“... lacquer thinner and regular paint
thinner are all highly flammable”.
MRH-Jul 2014
