I have made progress, my 260 engine is working very well, still without drive rods, the track is laid and fastened down.
A couple issues have cropped as I try to operate.
At times at low speed the loco stops at rail joiners, the joints seem smooth and electric continuity is OK, the joints are not moving on the mounting board which is cork. I have cleaned the track with goo-b-gone on a very fine scotchbrite pad, have not yet figured out how to clean the loco wheels. What is best way to clean the loco?
Uncoupling may be my biggest challenge, I am using the Marklin fish hook couplers. I have made a manual device which works ok, except when my hands shake, I have early Parkinson’s. The Marklin track uncouplers are expensive at this stage of my experiment.
Any suggestions that are not too expensive and not to fussy to install or operate?
Happy New Year.

The Trix wheel cleaner works well. Otherwise make a cradle for your loco, invert the loco and place it in the cradle, apply power to the wheels (a 9V battery will do); cleaning the wheels as they spin with a cotton bud soaked in isopropyl.

A tooth pick works for uncoupling. I tried out the Märklin uncouplers and found them a bit hit and miss plus I don't like their looks.

Carim