Loco Maintenance

[that_guy_who_likes_trains]

I have a A1X Terrier "Brighton Works" (R2406) that is in a real big need of a service!

 

It's been running on track again lately after not being run for over 10 years! I'm surprised it could still move!

 

However I understand that it will definitely need a good clean and lubricating, but I don't know what products are the best and safest for doing so.

 

I've read up that nail polish remover or lighter fluid is good for cleaning them and an oiling pen with machine oil is great for lubricating the cogs and other little mechanisms within the loco.

 

I want to double with the experts before I attempt this incase I get the wrong products and end up putting my engine in the scrapyard.

 

[walkingthedog]

Not sure about nail polish remover.  Get some IPA isopropyl alcohol. Sewing machine oil is OK but treat youself to some oil from the likes of Hattons. Silicon grease is good for cogs, doesn't get thrown about like oil.

Remember if you can see the oil you've used too much.

 

DON'T use 3 in 1 type oil or WD40. 

[james_nelmes]

Get a purpose made model oil and apply it with a pin (i.e as little as possible on all bearings). 

To clean electrics I use "Electrical Contact Cleaner" from a large car parts and accessory store, which is Isopropyl alcohol in an aerosol (cheapest I have found in large quantity). I spray onto a cotton bud head and gentle rub on contacts to remove oxide etc. For old hornby motors it does the armatures etc. For modern can motor models, it's the pickups and wheels you need to clean.

Modern locos will run with a minimum of servicing. Old Hornby and Triang locos need alot of TLC to get them running sweetly. 

[walkingthedog]

Buy a big bottle of IPA from ebay. Pour a little into a container and dip a cotton bud in it. Much cheaper. About £6-50 per litre post free. Make sure it's 99.9% proof. Last you a lifetime.