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How to Clean Silver Nickel Toy Train Tracks

Maintaining the layout is a task faced by every model railroader. This is particularly true when it comes to cleaning their nickel track. If the track becomes dirty or coated with oxidation, it interferes with the operation of the engines, and can slow a model railroad train to a halt. However, cleaning model railroad track is a fairly simple task, requiring only a few basic items, and a bit of elbow grease.

Things You'll Need

Track cleaning block
Wiping cloth, such as an old piece of terry cloth or denim
Vacuum cleaner

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the power transformer, and carefully remove any structures or figures that are immediately adjacent to the tracks. This will prevent them from being damaged while you are cleaning.
- 2
  Rub your cleaning block across all of the rails to restore a clean, bright finish that will effectively conduct electricity to your locomotives.
- 3
  Wipe down all of the tracks with the cloth. This removes any smears or dirt and dust particles from their surfaces.
- 4
  Vacuum the area between and next to the rails with a brush or snorkel attachment. That will remove any dust or dirt the rag may have missed.
- 5
  Replace and reposition any accessories you moved before cleaning the tracks.

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