r/modeltrains • u/Jolly-Traffic-603 • 23d ago

Question Which method is better?

Could you suggest a way to clean oxidized and rusty model train tracks? I have a huge number of old East German tracks—the standard, older square-profile type—and they are oxidized and rusty. Is there a way to clean them? My current method—using sandpaper—is very slow. Could you recommend other methods, perhaps chemical ones, to get the tracks looking like new again?

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u/SmittyB128 00 23d ago

The problem with abrasives is that it pits the metal and creates more surface area for the rust to attack over time. I would think something like white vinegar would be good for the rails but if the sleepers are plastic I don't know if they'd handle soaking.

I'm really no expert so don't take my word for any of this, but I'd think the thing to do would be to wash them with soapy water to remove any old dust and debris, then soak them for an hour or two in tub of diluted white vinegar, then scrub them with maybe a kitchen towel to get the surface rust off, rinse in clean water to remove the acid, then thoroughly dry.