SpotatrainSpotatrain
Clear plastic bottle with a white screw cap and a blue label reading Bachmann E-Z Lube Rail & Road Track Cleaner, 6 fl. oz., on a white background

Image: Bachmann Trains · source

Model trains

Bachmann E-Z Lube Rail & Road Track Cleaner, 6 fl. oz.

Bachmann · Budget

Bachmann's 6 fl. oz. track cleaner is a liquid, sold under the E-Z Lube name, that cleans model railroad track and leaves a conductive coating for better electrical contact, and Bachmann says it suits all model train scales.

Check price on Amazon (affiliate link, opens Amazon in a new tab)

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How we pick our gear

We have not tested it ourselves: strengths and weaknesses below come from the tests cited.

Why Railfans Carry It

Model trains run on electrical contact between wheels and rails, and Bachmann's label says this cleaner cleans track and leaves a non-slippery conductive coating for improved electrical contact. Bachmann's shop page adds that it removes dirt and grime for better electrical conductivity and is compatible with all model train scales and track systems. The label also says it enhances the performance of all model train products including DCC-equipped and DCC sound-equipped models, and that it improves slot car track performance.

In the Field

The label gives a short routine. Pour a small amount of cleaner on a soft cloth, rub the track until no more residue is noticeable on the cloth, then wipe any excess from the track. The cleaner can be used with track cleaning cars, but the label says not to excessively soak across the width of the car's roller, because the cleaner is electrically conductive and this may cause a short. Bachmann's page for its Hand-Held Track Cleaner tells buyers to use that tool with item 99992, this cleaner, for great results. The safety data sheet linked from the product page lists the liquid as clear, colorless and odorless, classifies it as not hazardous under OSHA regulations, and recommends safety glasses for the eyes and mechanical ventilation in confined areas. It also says to keep the container closed, away from heat and sources of ignition, and to avoid extremes of temperature in storage.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Six fluid ounces (177 mL) in one bottle
  • Cleaning and conductive coating in one liquid
  • Usable on all model train scales and track systems
  • Directions printed on the label

Weaknesses

  • Skin and eye irritant according to the label
  • Conductive, so a soaked cleaning-car roller may cause a short
  • Excess has to be wiped from the track after use
  • The safety data sheet says frequent or prolonged contact may irritate the skin

Key Specifications

Bachmann E-Z Lube Rail & Road Track Cleaner, 6 fl. oz. — key specifications
SpecificationValue
ScaleSuitable for any scale
Contents6 fl. oz (177 mL)
Item number99992
CompatibilityAll model train scales and track systems
Retail packageL 2 in., W 2 in., H 7 in.
Origin on labelMade in USA
Recommended age14 and up
Ingredient on labelParaffinic hydrocarbon

Who It’s For

An adult who maintains a model railroad and wants one cleaner for track of any scale. Bachmann recommends it for ages 14 and up and prints "keep out of the reach of children".

Alternatives

Bachmann E-Z Lube Conductive Contact Lube: Bachmann's page presents it for superior electric pickup, contact maintenance and track cleaning. Bachmann Hand-Held Track Cleaner (item 39013): a tool that Bachmann says to use with this cleaner, with replacement pads sold as item 39014.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How we pick our gear

Compare all model trains.