Choosing the right Scalextric guide blade pick-up braid pins

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s Scalextric cars used little metal pins to connect the pick-up brushes to the motor wires.  Originally the pick-up pins were brass in colour and had a diameter of 1.95mm.  Later on the pins were changed to a silver colour and the diameter was changed to 1.75mm.

The two pins are very similar to look at apart from the colour.  However, the modern service part for the 1.75mm pin is now a brass colour too.  So it’s now impossible to look at a pin and decide its diameter.  The only way to let them apart is to measure the diameter with a micrometer or try them in the guide.
The only really certain way to ensure a match is to replace the Scalextric guide and pins together as a complete guide assembly.
Another great insight from Scalextric Car Restorations