Charles Angelo Irace
Lionel’s FasTrack system sectional track features a built-in molded plastic roadbed. It looks good right out of the box, but there are a few things I like to do to make it look even better. I start by bluing the center rail (above left photo) with Birchwood Casey Super Blue, using the same process outlined in the tubular track section and following the product’s label precautions. Note: if your track is new, you can skip the degreaser step. After bluing the rail, letting it dry overnight, and wiping it with oil, I give the center rail one last cleaning using a coarse dry rag.
Charles Angelo Irace
Next, I paint the ballast with satin black latex paint. Using a square-tipped artist’s brush, I apply a coat of paint on either side of the middle rail. I then mix the black paint 1:1 with water to create a wash. I apply the wash to the rest of the roadbed. The thinned paint enhances the texture of the gravel, and the darker paint in the center serves to hide the middle rail and mimics the oily grime that accumulates in the center of a busy main line.
After allowing the painted track to dry overnight, I install it on top of a strip of carpet underlayment foam cut to the width of the track. I secure the FasTrack sections with no. 4 Phillips-head screws (they need to be at least an inch long), again being sure to leave a little play.
I am completely in the dark about my Beautiful Lionel train set that I use at Christmas. My Train Store closed (sadly) and I need help. 1. What do I use under the track to cut the noise. The track is set up on tile pavers.Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you Elena Mandin