Posts: 2,959
Threads: 158
Joined: Dec 2008
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.
--
Kevin
Check out my Shapeways creations!
3-d printed items in HO/HOn3 and more!
<!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="https://www.shapeways.com/shops/kevin-s-model-train-detail-parts">https://www.shapeways.com/shops/kevin-s ... tail-parts</a><!-- m -->
Posts: 1,229
Threads: 23
Joined: Dec 2008
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 may not be a rivet counter, but I sure do like rivets!
Posts: 2,959
Threads: 158
Joined: Dec 2008
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.
--
Kevin
Check out my Shapeways creations!
3-d printed items in HO/HOn3 and more!
<!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="https://www.shapeways.com/shops/kevin-s-model-train-detail-parts">https://www.shapeways.com/shops/kevin-s ... tail-parts</a><!-- m -->
Posts: 1,817
Threads: 27
Joined: Dec 2009
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!!!
biL
Lehigh Susquehanna & WesternÂ
"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves." ~~Abraham Lincoln
Posts: 2,959
Threads: 158
Joined: Dec 2008
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.
--
Kevin
Check out my Shapeways creations!
3-d printed items in HO/HOn3 and more!
<!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="https://www.shapeways.com/shops/kevin-s-model-train-detail-parts">https://www.shapeways.com/shops/kevin-s ... tail-parts</a><!-- m -->
Posts: 1,061
Threads: 111
Joined: Jan 2009
I use a product called SILVER GOOP its a anti sezse thin it with mytery oil.
jim
Posts: 1,897
Threads: 40
Joined: Dec 2008
If you are going to use ATF, make sure it is synthetic atf. The non synthetic atf will attack the plastic.
