Test Track Joints with a Multimeter Before Ballasting

Before you ballast, test every track joint with a multimeter. It is not glamorous, but it saves a lot of bother later. Put the probes either side of the join and make sure the current is passing cleanly. If a train hesitates now, it will not magically improve once you have glued stone all around the rails.

I learned on the real railway that small checks prevent big headaches. The same is true on a model layout. A loose fishplate, a tiny gap or a slightly raised rail can cause stalling and derailments. Fix it while the track is still bare and easy to reach.

Watch more railway fixes on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@petethetrainman, and join Pete's Railway Club for £4.99 a month if you would like members-only videos and direct advice from me.