Track ?

I bought that abrasive block that MTH sells and it will remove the black surface. I have used it on my Atlas 3R track but only when needed. Is this for electrical contact or cosmetic reasons?

S

A track eraser--any type or brand--works just fine.

You could also visit your local hardware store and purchase one of those 3M "sanding blocks" (actually they are a firm foam block) in the "Extra Fine" grade, and they work VERY well.

I agree with HW here. I have been using these blocks for years with fantastic results. Run a rag with some alcohol after sanding to pick up the residue left by the block and you'll be in great shape.

These blocks can make old rusty track shine like new.

Ok, I'm either lazy, old, or both. I use Dremel 512E Scotchbrite pads.

Gilly

Ok Thank You all for your ideas and help.

I use a Brightboy track erase to unblacken the tops of both MTH and Atlas center rails.

I always thought the reason for the center rail to be blackened was so it was not so visible. So if you remove it then it will be shiny.

They are discussing removal of the blackening from the TOP of the center rail. Thus, the operator gets a MUCH better DCS and TMCC signal during command operations.

TMCC signal is on the outside rail not center rail. Unless the blackening is excessively thick it should not interfere with the DCS signal going through the center rail to the roller pickups on MTH engines.

Every layout I have built and I've rebuilt several times have had track with a blackened center rail. My current layout uses Ross track and switches and has a blackened center rail. No issues with TMCC/Legacy on my layout.

Now I understand that some early Atlas track had an excess built up of the product used to blacken the rail and had to be removed to increase the electrical conductivity but I have not heard of recent production having those issues.

I thing the current method for producing the blackened rail is actually a chemical applied to the metal that turns it black but is so thin it does not affect anything.