Diesel Locomotives and Model Train Maintenance
Most model train sets today arrive ready to run. This is no reason to forgo pre track and pre run maintenance.
In most miniature trains today your engines casting can be easily taken off by spreading cast lugs and easing off chassis.
Once casting is lifted and electronics are exposed, place locomotive on track and trouble shoot for such poor operations as stuttering, binding gears, slow starts and odd noises. Make absolutely sure your trains trucks are resting comfortably. If you notice your train resting uncomfortably it may be necessary to adjust screws or reset truck.
A safe bet is to begin your maintenance quest by cleaning wheels of your locomotive. This is accomplished by attaching test leads to the motor and firing engine while she rests on her back in the palm of your hand. With your free hand braze a wheel cleaning block across her wheels until they glisten!
Following Cleaning of Wheels Your Mechanical Inspection Begins
After your locomotives wheels are clean take apart their gearbox and inspect for plastic shavings and also take this opportunity to clean the inside of your gearbox. Once clean and dry, apply lubricant as needed. Be carefully not to apply access amounts as this can lead to the very problems you where attempting to avoid.
Make sure you pay special attention to electrical connections while truck is disassembled. A clean connection from track to motor is first carved in truck assembly.
Upon completion of your tune up a test run is recommended. This will be the exclamation point that assures you a safe relaxing run.
That’s it… fellow train, enthusiast. After you’ve completed test run you’re ready to shift into high gear and roll out your layout. Now with clean wheels and adjusted trucks you can feel comfortable knowing your commands are reaching your decoders and belting out chores in true engineer fashion. Just in case you are interested, we have a heads up regarding track cleaning. You may actually purchase automated track cleaners that ride the rails along side your engines to make for smooth rides and positive connections.
Be sure to check out Daryl’s BLOG surrounding model trains, you may also stop in to read thomas trian engine reviews.
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