[FONT="]Has anyone used a product manufactured by Sanchem called No-Ox-ID “A SPECIAL?” One source I read about it claims that once applied to track, then track cleaning nearly becomes a thing of the past and that electrical conductivity is greatly improved. Apparently, these positive effects can last for years. What's been your experience with No-Ox? Thanks! [/FONT]
I have never used it, and in my personal opinion there isn't anything that can last for years. Your track is going to get dirty and need cleaning regardless of what "snake oil" you put on it. Just my opinion, you would be ahead of the game to purchase a good track cleaning car and run it around the layout once or twice per month. Carl
I use No-Ox and anecdotally I can say it helps. It's been a few years and time to put down another application. I also use a CMX track cleaning car that is my mainstay.
I started this thread on another forum - should keep you busy and informed for a little while... and yes it does last for years ratled http://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/7169
Thanks, Steve for a helpful reply that actually addresses the question. I've saved the informative article in Model Railroad Hobbyist magazine you wrote for future reference.
I use ATF. It basically does the same thing... I only need to do a bright boy cleaning once a year. JMS
I use that in my air tools! LOL! I will try it to see if it is better than ATF. Also, I use red dexron type of ATF... haven't tried any other brands/kinds. JMS
That thread on MRH will lead down a track cleaning rathole. Good stuff though with some actual scientific experiments done. The upshot is No-Ox may help or it may not, depends on where you live and the environment your railroad is in. Lots of discussion of what it does to help, but the bulk of track dirt is oxidation caused by microsparks between the wheels and rails. No-Ox may leave a thin conductive layer that reduces those sparks. Or, it may simply add moisture in dry environments which reduces spark activity. Another, much much cheaper trick is to use graphite to provide a super thin conductive layer on the tracks which likely also reduces sparking.
Look at using No Ox like cleaning your car. You wash your car with soap and water/ I cleaned my track with MS and then you wax your car/use No Ox as a track wax. No Ox dries unlike oils which will always be wet and will hold "ich" to your track. No Ox doesn't cause micro abrasions like Bright Boys, masonite pads, or sand paper does that actual increase the sparks that cause the black gunk. To each his own. I'm glad Gary shared so I could use am glad it helps thoughs who like it ratled
The most common mistake made when applying NO-OX is to use too much. I applied it per the recommendations of experienced users -- 1/4 teaspoon per 500 feet of N-scale track -- and found it very worthwhile. - Jeff
I have some experience with putting on too much No-Ox and didn't know how to spread 1/4 teaspoon over 500'. I worked out that I can apply a small amount of No-Ox to the cleaning pad on my CMX track cleaning car and then run the car around the layout.
I've used a drop of Wahl Oil (clipper oil) for years. Just a drop of each rail then back the train thru and around the pike. Works like a champ!
