大掃除 – N scale鐵道模型及軌道清潔護理指南
跟1/64靜態模型不一樣，會行走的n規鐵道模型需要定期打理，連軌道亦不例外，這樣才可以長玩長有。
首先科普一下，由於鐵道模型通過金屬車輪導電以驅動動力車(M)的摩打，以至頭尾卡的頭尾燈，以及車廂燈，因此清潔的車輪及路軌，對火車模型行駛的流暢度有關鍵的影響。就算你不常放車，塵埃也會自然降落到路軌再捲到車輪上，有時放車後我們會發現鐵車輪上有一圈圈的污積，正是將路軌的帶走。因此有個說法是運轉所通過玩家火車模型的行駛來省卻清潔時間，這亦不無道理。
以下是幾個方法我常用來清潔車輪及路軌：
- 洗轆筆：顧名思義，就是將筆頭刷向車輪，清潔液會沾上車輪，但久而久之車輪會變得骯髒，如果是ポポンデッタPopondetta 1304洗轆筆Wheel Cleaning Pen的話會額外附送一個掣咀。如果每個車輪刮十圈，一架車卡只有16個車輪，山手線有11卡，可以想像要刮多久。
- 洗軌筆：既然有車輪，當然有洗鐵軌的，ポポンデッタPopondetta 1302 Quick Rail Cleaner軌道清潔筆主要將筆咀換成刷狀，可以直接刷在路軌上，適用於露天路段，歧路(波口)需要多刷幾次。
- 洗軌水：如果不用筆形亦可以直接將ポポンデッタPopondetta 1306 Bottle rail cleaner洗軌水直接倒在紙巾直接抹上路軌，效果明顯。同時可以反轉做法，就是將洗軌水倒在紙巾上，然後將功率開到最大，將動力車一邊放在軌道，一邊放到紙巾上，藉此將污漬留在紙巾，因用洗轆筆是無法清潔動力車的車輪，特別是黑色橡膠圈。不過，亦有指這種做法會損害摩打。
除了以上我常用的做法外，還有路剋刷膠、動力車輪清潔器(跑步機)、多功能路軌清潔車(如Tomix 6425，另需動力車拉動)等，如果暫時不玩車的話建議抽起擺在盒中，這樣才可以常玩常有。至於為什麼是ポポンデッタPopondetta？只因它的周邊產品眾多，開鐵道模型店到推出周邊產品，還要差不多月月買，果然明白賺錢之道。
Maintenance Guide: Cleaning Your N Scale Model Trains and Tracks
Unlike static 1/64 scale models, operational N scale model trains require regular maintenance, including the tracks, to ensure long-term enjoyment and performance.
The Basics
Model trains rely on metal wheels to conduct electricity, powering the motor units (M cars), head/tail lights, and interior illumination. Clean wheels and tracks are crucial for smooth operation. Even with infrequent use, dust naturally accumulates on the tracks and transfers to the wheels. You may notice rings of dirt on the metal wheels after running your trains. While some suggest that regular operation helps maintain cleanliness through natural wear, this alone isn’t sufficient for proper maintenance.
Common Cleaning Methods I Use:
- Wheel Cleaning Pen
The Popondetta 1304 Wheel Cleaning Pen applies cleaning solution directly to wheels. It comes with a spare tip. However, be prepared for time-consuming work – cleaning ten rotations per wheel on a train with multiple cars (e.g., an 11-car Yamanote Line set with 16 wheels per car) takes considerable time. - Track Cleaning Pen
The Popondetta 1302 Quick Rail Cleaner features a brush-type tip for direct track cleaning. It works well on straight sections, though turnouts (points) require additional attention. - Track Cleaning Fluid
Popondetta 1306 Track Cleaning Fluid can be applied using tissue paper for effective cleaning. An alternative method involves placing a fluid-soaked tissue beside the track and running powered units with one set of wheels on the tissue to clean driving wheels with rubber traction tires, which are difficult to clean with pens. However, some warn this method might stress the motor.
Additional Tools
- Other options include:
- Track rubber erasers
- Powered wheel cleaners (“treadmills”)
- Dedicated track cleaning cars (like Tomix 6425, requires locomotive to pull)
- When not in use, store trains in their boxes to maintain condition.
Note on Popondetta: Their extensive range of maintenance products makes them a popular choice among enthusiasts, though this requires regular investment in cleaning supplies.
Tips:
- Clean regularly to prevent build-up
- Pay special attention to turnouts and contact points
- Use cleaning tools gently to avoid damage
- Store trains properly when not in use
