Train Sets Only Blog

As with all things mechanical, model trains require routine maintenance to ensure they run smoothly and efficiently. Ignoring routine maintenance will inevitably result in poor performance down the road. Below we provide a few maintenance tips to keep your model trains running at peak performance.

Track Cleaning

Track cleaning is an important maintenance measure that needs to be should be performed on a continual basis to remove grease and dirt that naturally builds up as well as dust/glue that may get on the rails while working on scenery. It is an important maintenance measure that can be performed a number of ways. Generally speaking, you want to use the least abrasive method possible to avoid scratching the rails. Initially we recommend trying to get grime off with a standard pink eraser. If that does not get the job done there are a number of track cleaning products available. You can try to remove dirt and grime manually with the bright boy track cleaner or even purchase a track cleaning kit that contains all the pieces you need! For regular maintenance, a quick and more efficient way to clean is with a special track cleaning car. These simply attach to your locomotives and clean as they go around the track. This doesn't always get off really stuck on gunk, but will prevent light build-up from becoming a harder to clean problem down the road.

Locomotive Cleaning

Every now and then your locomotive will need a bit of oiling to keep it running smoothly. Normal household oils and greases are not recommended as they can be harmful to plastic parts. We highly recommend using Labelle oil or similar which comes with a needlepoint dispenser. This allows you to squeeze a tiny amount out to place it on the bearings and steam loco-side rods. For gears, a light grease is recommended. The general rule of thumb here is that less is more and typically it's not needed unless there is a problem with performance or you're finding you have noise issues. Below is a great video that shows you more in depth how to apply the oil to your locomotive.

Locomotive Wheel Maintenance

Build-up of gunk on your locomotive wheels can cause derailment and electrical pickup issues. Locomotive and rolling stock wheel cleaning can be done manually (several methods shown online). We highly recommend using tools like the Woodland Scenics Roto cleaners and Trix cleaning tool . Below is a great video with guidance on how best to clean your model train wheels.

Keeping up with maintenance will ensure your model trains continue to run smoothly and also you avoid costly repairs in the future. If you have any further questions about model train set maintenance our experts are here to answer your questions. Don't hesitate to reach us at 815-462-4720 or cs@trainsetsonly.com

Train Sets Only Blog

Recent Posts

Recent Posts

Categories

Archives