First set, help please!

[francescam]

Hi! I just git today my first Hornby oo gauge Country local set R.671. It's beautiful and I am so excited. I am bit worried however because I am trying to build the oval layout and first I noticed the tracks were a bit old and seems like one of the clips on a side of one is missing. They don't stay put that well and as I tested the engine it runs good for 1 second and then stops. I am nervous because if it is a track issue might be fixable but i am not sure if it could be a power issue or something else. Please let me know and I can send a video if needed!

Mod: Post moved to the layout area of the forum where it should attract more replies.

[glencairn]

Hi Francesca. I find it strange that a rail joiner missing on a new train set (unless it is second hand). With a missing rail joiner the electric current will be non-existant. Gently squeezing any loose rail joiners with pincers helps preventing them working loose.
I find having a pack of rail joiners valuable 'in store' so to speak.

Other members will (I am sure) give an easy fix to your challenge.

Glencairn

[Brian]

Hi
Are the metal rail joiners (Fishplates) missing or have you seen that each section of track only has two joiners per section. left hand rail one end and right hand rail on the other end. If these are missing, I would suspect the set isn't brand new but possibly used (Secondhand)?

Re loose joiners, as has been suggested, plug the two abutting rails together and gently "Crimp" up the bottom foot of the joiner on each rail using pliers or other suitable hand tool. Unusually these sectional track joiners are factory spot welded onto the bottom of the rail. A tiny spot where the weld is placed can be seen underneath usually. Replacement metal joiners - Hornby part No R910 or Peco SL-10 are readily available and both fit Hornby sectional track.

[bulleidboy]

I think this set must be secondhand? R671 was introduced in 1986/7. The best bet might be to find a local store selling Hornby track and buy enough new curves to make an oval - if room allows, a couple of straights, one placed either side, would make the oval a little bigger.

[francescam]

Hello, thank you all for your suggestions. I have checked throughly and there is only one fishplate missing and 2 that are a bit loose. I find the problem might also be the condition as both the track and wheels are dirty. This set is second hand but was described to be on a better condition so might have to talk to the seller. As well I have searched and it doesn't seem to be too alarming, but what exactly can I do if there are light sparks on the wheels? Thank you.

[bulleidboy]

As the set is fairly old, I think it probably contains steel track. Hornby track is now nickel silver. I appreciate it is additional cost, but it would be best to replace it. I note there are some auctions on ebay offering nickel silver track - this is just one currently running - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/313995765667 ... SwVylifoLh

[francescam]

As the set is fairly old, I think it probably contains steel track. Hornby track is now nickel silver. I appreciate it is additional cost, but it would be best to replace it. I note there are some auctions on ebay offering nickel silver track - this is just one currently running - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/313995765667 ... SwVylifoLh

Thank you so much, as I am in a budget my ideal was not to have to buy new tracks yet but I will go tomorrow to my local hobby shop and see if perhaps the fishplates and some cleaning help. If not I'll have to buy those you suggested! Thanks again.

[Brian]

Check the track rails with a magnet. Fridge magnet will do. If its steel rail the magnet will be attracted if modern Nickel Silver rail it wont be attracted.
TBH If Steel rail it's not that good as it rusts and causes poor running. It can be cleaned to a degree, but it will rust again! Its best to purchase modern Nickel Silver railed sectional track from Peco or Hornby (in OO they are the same - Code 100 rail profile).

Two things for the tool box are a track rubber - special hard block designed to clean rail tops and a Fibre pencil used to clean wheel treads and pick up contacts. Examples... Hornby R8087 track rubber https://www.hattons.co.uk/13291/hornby_ ... tockdetail Peco PL-41 https://www.hattons.co.uk/7537/peco_pro ... tockdetail Fibre pencil.. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Modelcraft-PBU ... th=1&psc=1

There are of course many other tools and aids that are helpful such as fine light lubricating oil sold specifically for model use. Do not use WD40 spray type oils or thicker 3 in 1 types. Set of instrument (watchmaker) screwdrivers etc Long nosed pliers Wire cutters The list is somewhat endless! But not all are needed immediately.