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+--- Thread: Don't overlook the oil! (/showthread.php?tid=2880)
Don't overlook the oil! - nachoman - 07-03-2010
I pulled a locomotive off of my RIP track (work shelf) and have been tinkering to try and get it running well again. I fixed drivers out of quarter and some binding side rods, but the locomotive would still bind up about once per rev of the drive wheels. I put it back on the RIP track and moved on to other projects. Last night, I took it apart again to see if I could figure out what was wrong. The lubrication had become congealed and sticky. I cleaned it off the best I could, and re-lubricated it with labelle oil and grease. Now it runs great after a little breaking in. I also took another locomotive and put a tiny drop of oil on each side rod bearing. It runs much better now. Even through the side rods didn't feel like they were binding before, a tiny drop of oil made a huge difference. Lesson learned: If you have a locomotive that isn't running quite as well as it used to, take time to clean it and re-lubricate. It may solve your problem.
Re: Don't overlook the oil! - ocalicreek - 07-03-2010
Good advice Kevin. I'd add this; make sure it's plastic compatible oil if it comes into contact with plastic, and light enough oil like sewing machine oil for the drivers & valve gear.
Labelle makes some great oils.
What do you generally use?
Galen
Re: Don't overlook the oil! - nachoman - 07-03-2010
ocalicreek Wrote:Good advice Kevin. I'd add this; make sure it's plastic compatible oil if it comes into contact with plastic, and light enough oil like sewing machine oil for the drivers & valve gear.
Labelle makes some great oils.
What do you generally use?
Galen
I had been using something sold by atlas (made for their locos, I guess). It was weird stuff that was kind of soapy. I really didn't like it, but one time I was desperate and that is all the LHS had in stock at the time. I have since been using the labelle stuff - and like it very much. I have heard others use automatic transmission fluid or sewing machine oil. Both of those options may be cheaper or more readily available for those without a LHS nearby. Sewing machine oil can be bought at most craft or fabric stores, and ATF probably at any gas station.
Re: Don't overlook the oil! - P5se Camelback - 07-03-2010
LaBelle makes several different grades of oil, including the "plastic compatible" kind ... I swear by their stuff!
If it's not running too well ...
... a drop or two of LaBelle ... AHhhhh!! SWELL!!!
Re: Don't overlook the oil! - nachoman - 07-03-2010
P5se Camelback Wrote:If it's not running too well ...
... a drop or two of LaBelle ... AHhhhh!! SWELL!!!
Absolutely! I have two 2-8-0s that are running SMOOTH now. I am almost ready to cancel tomorrows plans and stay home and run trains.
Re: Don't overlook the oil! - jim currie - 07-03-2010
I use a product called SILVER GOOP its a anti sezse thin it with mytery oil.
jim
Re: Don't overlook the oil! - Russ Bellinis - 07-13-2010
If you are going to use ATF, make sure it is synthetic atf. The non synthetic atf will attack the plastic.