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.
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
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.
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!!!
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.
I use a product called SILVER GOOP its a anti sezse thin it with mytery oil.
jim
If you are going to use ATF, make sure it is synthetic atf. The non synthetic atf will attack the plastic.