Lionel 0 gauge Tubular Track

Cleaning and preparation of the conductive surfaces prior to laying the track is all you need in my experience.

If you're worried about a section you won't be able to reach, simply solder jumpers across each joint in that section.  You won't need to worry about the pins.  Don't try to solder the track together directly, use a short wire jumper between each piece of track.

Try using longer sections of straight track, Lionel used to make sections of O gauge tubular that were equal to 4 straight tracks or around 40 inches long. Lionel also made 027 track in 4 track lengths of straight track that were about 35 inches long.

If you have humidity problems then stainless steel track by Gargraves is the better track option. Gargraves straight section as around 36.25 inches long.

Lee Fritz

Take Gunrunner's advice or use the stainless steel track like Lee suggested.  Either way I would make power connections or jumpers on each piece of track that was very difficult to maintain.  I would rather spend the time and effort once on that, than deal with intermittent problems in the future.

Do you have problems with other metal or electronics objects in your garage or home due to the proximity of the ocean?  If so, I would also want to control, filter, or contain the quality of air especially in relation to the engines, rolling stock and accessories.

If you have humidity issues check your windows as they might be too old to keep moisture out. I just replaced my windows about 14 months ago with hurricane impact windows, my old windows were letting water in like crazy. Also you may want to invest in a dehumidifier or you can use damp rid to help take moisture out of the air.

Lee Fritz