I have several track joints especially on trimmed Gargraves track that are rough - no matter what I do they are bumpy - thought of using a file to smooth them out. Any suggestions?
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Filing is good, If you have a spare set of trucks push it over the joint for testing.
You have to be a Engineer , brakeman, Signal maintainer and section crew all at once.
I had the same problem with Lionel tubular track. While the "clickety-clack" was okay, the damage being done to traction tires was not!!
About two years ago I addressed the problem by putting JB Weld on the gaps where rail sections joined, including the center rail. First, I cleaned the joint area very thoroughly with alcohol. After the JB Weld was thoroughly cured - a couple of days - I dressed the joints with a fine file. Particular attention was paid to the inside of the outer rails, as well as to the top of all three rails. The JB Weld was left only in the gap between rail ends, and level with the rails.
The trains run much quieter, the pick-up rollers are getting a gentler ride, and the traction tires are no longer being chewed up by sharp rail ends.
The JB Weld has not disintegrated or otherwise shown any wear.
Mrod,
Maybe post a picture so we all can see what your talking about here.
Thanks, John
