Summary

Like the design that inspired this, normally you nail model train track to a big board to hold it together. I only bring out our 80+ year old track every Christmas and set a loop up on hard flooring. The track pins aren't enough to keep the track together. The heavy the train running around the track tends to pull them apart, especially on the curves. My track is old and has a lot of variability between the ties, so I designed a spring clip.

These clips hold two pieces of track together. They go on from the bottom and shouldn't be too hard to install. First, put the end that moves (slotted end) on one tie then clip it on the other tie. Once on they should not fall off.

The spring base rides in a slot. You will need to break it free from the slot. Grab the spring base with thumb and index finger on one hand and the outer rail with your other thumb and index finger. Twist and push down to break it free. If it comes out of the slots in the process, just put it back in.

I suggest printing one and trying it first.