09-21-2009, 10:15 AM
The only rule I follow is, when it is time to lubricate gears and bearings, thoroughly clean them first. My HOn3 2-4-4-2 ran more than any other ( all day at the train shows) Every second show (or about 32 hours run time), it was disassembled, cleaned, and lubricated. It is still running well 20 years of use, later.
If cleaning isn't done, dust, plastic, and metal, worn off the parts, collects in the lubricant and it becomes an abrasive paste.
In the cleaning process, where possible (I don't disassemble can motors) excess carbon is removed from between the commutator plates of the motors. That buildup can eventually short out the commutator, and the motor will first lose power and eventually cease to run.
If cleaning isn't done, dust, plastic, and metal, worn off the parts, collects in the lubricant and it becomes an abrasive paste.
In the cleaning process, where possible (I don't disassemble can motors) excess carbon is removed from between the commutator plates of the motors. That buildup can eventually short out the commutator, and the motor will first lose power and eventually cease to run.
We always learn far more from our own mistakes, than we will ever learn from another's advice.
The greatest place to live life, is on the sharp leading edge of a learning curve.
Lead me not into temptation.....I can find it myself!
The greatest place to live life, is on the sharp leading edge of a learning curve.
Lead me not into temptation.....I can find it myself!