Fast Tracks

I have probably 20 36" pieces of code 83 pre-weathered Micro Engineering rail that i've had, like, forever.

I'd like to strip it clean so I can use it for turnout construction.

Anyone have any ideas on how to do this? (that hopefully does not require the use of a nuclear radiation suit)

Thanks.

It's a chemical etching. You really can't simply remove it easily. However, it can be used for constructing turnouts. What is important is the solder bonds on the bottom base.

First wipe the rail in vinegar and rise well. Then draw the rail through a rag soaked in alcohol. These steps will remove the surface etching of the weathering process.

When cutting the size for specific pieces in a fixture - you will need to clean the base by lightly sanding or filing for good clean base metal. Using a Dremel with wire brush for the area of frog points needing solder will also greatly assist frog construction. It will be tedious effort - but you will salvage the rail. Clean off with file and wire brush those areas where electrical connection will also be made. To complete - once the turnout is finished and tested (electrically as well), paint the soldered joints with the ME Rail Weathering solution to blend with the rail weathering.

_________________
-ed mccamey-
COSLAR RR - http://www.coslar.us/
NMRA Standards and Conformance Department
PROTO & FINE Scale Coordinator
I estimate I have about 5 pounds of coupler springs somewhere in the vicinity of my workbench.

Indeed. After some more digging (guess I should have done that first. Sorry about that!) Others say the same. The chemical etching would require MORE etching of some form to remove the coloring impregnation. It can be done, but frankly more work than it's really worth and since this is old stock. And on close sighting/inspection there are quite a few "micro" kinks from all the house moves/bad handling over the past 15 years. I can get a shiny new 36" rail section right here for about a buck. Problem solved. I'll just use that for flatcar loads and yard debris....