There is an interesting thread about weathering rail over on the OGR forum.
The take home point is that rusty rail only occurs on unused branch lines. Otherwise, the rail is covered with detritus from the operation of the railroad.
Very interesting. Thanks for posting the link. I well remember seeing the lines of reefers in Chicago being re-iced for the trip on east.
He makes some good points, especially regarding different eras. My theme is a lightly used branch line in modern times operated by a preservation society. Rust is pretty typical on museum lines, but the Ruddy Brown primer alone is too red for rust. I tone it down with a spatter spray of flat black. I use the same technique for wheels, etc.
(http://www.cvsry.com/images/wtrack-12s.jpg)
(http://www.cvsry.com/images/wtrack-20s.jpg)
My technique article is here: http://www.cvsry.com/car_%26_loco_mods.htm#Track%20Weathering%20Tutorial
I agree with the original author’s point that “red rust” is not typical for rails that are in use. There is some form of rust but usually it’s not the crusty reddish stuff. Most rails I’ve seen have been very dark brown, almost black.
BTW, something I’ve never seen modeled in any scale is automatic flange greasers, and the greasy gunk that builds up on the rails around them.
Here is some new rail waiting to be installed…red rust. The mailine behind…a muddy brown. I do see a lot of red rust on little used sidings. Ralph
(http://www.lscdata.com/users/cabby/_forumfiles/HamletNC043Medium.jpg)
