track cleaner

[tommyrob123]

hi, i have an n gauge layout with a lot of it under tunnels. i would like your thoughts and ideas on which track cleaning wagon/car i could use on these areas. i know the CMX is the bees knees but out of my price bracket. i would like one that uses or can use Isopropanol Alcohol for the fluid. i am unsure weather dapol, minitrix or gaugemaster would fit the bill. i do have a gaugemaster track cleaning wagon but would like one that uses fluid and pads.
look forward to your views.
thanks

[Steve M]

You would be better off with the unit made by Sharge. Similar to CMX but cheaper. The others are worse than useless.

[RAF96]

I have the Dapol OO one and the tank is too small and the dribble hole is too large so the thing doesn’t do many track lengths to the tank full.
The wizzy disc bit is good for flipping your points as it passes over them causing derails, so it only ever gets used for what it is good at - hoovering.

[tommyrob123]

yes i thought about the sharge but i don't think they do a n gauge version or i couldn't find one

[Walkingthedog]

I had a Sharge, very good.

[Steve M]

yes i thought about the sharge but i don't think they do a n gauge version or i couldn't find one

They used to - I have one. Strange there’s nothing on the website though.

[tommyrob123]

i have been in contact with sharge and they no longer do an n gauge version. i do have a cleaning wagon with the course pads on but wanted something that would actually clean as well. i suppose the minitrix/dapol is the only option but can i use Isopropanol Alcohol in them?

[Steve M]

IMHO the Dapol version is a good vacuum cleaner while its other functions are lacking. Not sure if it's been updated but you may find its DC only unless converted. By the time you've done that you may as well have bought the CMX.

[sandy]

What is wrong with a cleaning rubber and a cloth and IPA. Except you cant get to covered sections If you have any. I made sure I could lift off all my covered sections. So I dont have that problem.

[Steve M]

What is wrong with a cleaning rubber and a cloth and IPA. Except you cant get to covered sections If you have any. I made sure I could lift off all my covered sections. So I dont have that problem.

Absolutely Sandy. Removeable scenery is a godsend although usually for derailments in my case. I do send the Sharge round from time to time, mainly to clear dust if the layout hasn’t been used for a while and a cleaning rubber and IPA on a cloth is my main cleaner.
Woodland Scenics do a cleaning set where a selection of pads attach to a handle that can be pushed under tunnels and bridges - not really effective where curves are concerned.
The reality of track cleaning is that that it’s not a one size fits all situation - use the best tool for the individual location.