Are chicken grit and crushed oyster shells the same thing?
Technically, there is a difference. Chicken grit is crushed rocks or pebbles which aids in digestion. Oyster shells are consumed for calcium to harden an egg’s shell. Since the shells are crushed pieces with a “tooth,” (as opposed to rounded edges, like river rock) they could be used as ballast, provided they are crushed finely enough. How do I keep the track clean? Constant cleaning of the track is probably the biggest thing that drives people away from track power. However, track-powered railroads are probably still the most common. Mechanical cleaners (as opposed to solvents) are still the most effective, unless your track is coated with oil, say from a live steamer. Start out by brushing any dirt, sand, or debris from the track with a small broom. The track can then be cleaned. A drywall sander, which amounts to sandpaper on a stick, is a popular way of cleaning the track, since it allows you to stand up. Scotchbrite pads from 3M also work well. LGB offers sanding pads for some of
