A complete system. The Rail Tracker is a 21⁄2″ inch long plastic tool that swivels on a knob. Indentations on the knob and base of the tool make it easy to grip. Two track cleaning pads fit on pegs on the bottom of the tool.
Two sets of hard rubber-like pads are included. One set is for regular cleaning. The other set, referred to as rescue pads, is slightly more abrasive and meant for removing heavy grime or rough spots. Both types of pads have grooves that fit over the rails.
Felt and cloth pads are also included. Cleaning fluid is applied with the felt pads, then the cloth pads are used to dry the rails. The set comes with a bottle of Woodland Scenics Clean Track Solution.
Depending on their orientation, all the pads will work on N, HO, and three-rail O gauge track.
A 12″ plastic handle (included) fits into the tool and pivots 180 degrees. For a longer reach, the manufacturer recommends cutting a length of 3⁄4″ diameter CPVC pipe and sliding it over the handle.
On the SLR I appreciated the tool’s ability to reach into tunnels and under the portal bracing of a through-truss bridge. On the MR&T the tool’s handle helped me avoid knocking down trees.
In both cases the cleaning pads picked up a lot of grime from the rails. I ran the maintenance pads along the track twice, followed by a pass each with the cleaning pads and finishing pads. On one grimy spot on the MR&T I made repeated passes with the heavy-duty rescue pads. After I cleaned the rails, locomotives ran without stalling.
The tool’s swiveling head made it easy for me to push the pads along the rails of curved track. According to the directions the head should be locked for cleaning turnouts. I found it easier to clean that type of track by hand with a rubber abrasive block, such as a bright boy or Woodland Scenics Rail Pad.
The Rail Tracker makes track cleaning an easier chore, and I’m sure we’ll continue to use it on our layouts.
Price: $34.99
Manufacturer
Woodland Scenics
P.O. Box 98
Linn Creek, MO 65052
woodlandscenics.com
Would like to read more reviews before I buy it.
I am still thinking about this item, but would like to see a Model railroader review of the wheel cleaning tool they offer also. Maybe even a short video on how well it works on Cody's office.
I wish I had this years ago. The best track cleaner of all the ones I've ever tried. Works particularly well after ballasting by using all pads. After using the drying pads I have had no real problems for ages. Dust mates are on there ways and I hope no more problems for ages.
Why would we use an abrasive product at all? What we learned from Comet and Ajax (brand name) cleansers in the kitchen/bathroom sink is that each use created more microscopic groves or scratches which caught and keep dirt faster than the virgin surface. Why not use just the cleaning solution on pads?
Most of my track is HO code 70 & 55 & the slotted pads tend to scrape and get caught in the ties with smaller rail sizes. Would like pads with shallower slots. Other than that, fantastic product, great for tunnels and bridges. I can throw away my home-made one I had previously.
neat product wish it would work for G scale track
Does it work with HOn3? Or are we the red headed step child again?
From the reviews I've read will be getting one the next time I go to my train store
will purchese soon
Great tool We purchased the track cleaner and the wheel cleaning tool for our club (MVAR) Mississippi Valley
Associated Railroaders T-Trak Sub located in Carleton Place Ontario,Canada.
purchased this when it first hit the shelves. works well on those hard to reach areas.
I wish it was adjustable for "S" gauge High Rail : (