What type of lubricant should be used on model trains

Important to remember to just use a little bit of oil on bearings. Use oil that is fit for purpose. 00 per month / $102. Parts that slide against each other get grease or teflon dust or graphite dust. Mar 19, 2009 · WD-40 would destroy a chain in one race. 99 Add to cart; Labelle #113 Coupler Lubricant with PTFE** for “S”, “O” and Larger Scales (also for LaBelle Lubricants have been the preferred choice of model railroaders for over 40 years. Mar 20, 2018 · It is very important to use the proper lubricant with the proper viscosity. Nov 16, 2016 · Start with cleaning with a damp brush, then if necessary, step up to dunking, or running it under a faucet or sprayer. Remove any excess oil with a piece of kitchen roll or similar. On my Walthers passenger cars I used Labelle 108 on the axle ends. Sep 13, 2021 · How To Lubricate And Maintain Your Model Trains With Labelle LubricantsWe Are With Labelle Lubricants Discussing How To Lubricate And Maintain Your Model Tra Labelle-Lubricants have been the #1 seller in Hobby and Model shops selling model trains for over 43 YEARS (And we have sold almost. Get yourself a Labelle oil bottle like he says and then dump it into your car engine and fill the bottle with synthetic ATF. LGB claimed a few times that their "conductive grease", which carries graphite, is conductive. My company used to package this stuff for a major model train company. 39 Original price was: $32. Get ones that say plastic compatible. Yes. Add to cart; Labelle #105 DCC / DC Track Conditioner Complete Kit $ 13. Track Maintenance Sep 4, 2007 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. Apr 3, 2021 · This governs the type of 'film' best suited for model-railroad purposes. I understand a motor oil such as Mobil 1 will be much cheaper than a typical model train grease or lubricant, but relatively speaking you grease / lubricate model trains infrequently. #3 · Jan 5, 2023. Nov 9, 2019 · Wipe down all your train tracks with the cloth, until the rust or grime has gone. Using grease only collects more dust. Add to Cart Quick view. 5; 1:19; and 1:12. G scale can refer to any ratio of model railroad that is larger than O scale. The Silicone WD 40 is the first I have heard of it. Do not use 3-in-1 or anything like it on your plastic-based models or you will suffer the dreadful disintegrating gears and other parts. 2. Next. Instead, opt for a light, non-conductive oil or a specialized model train lubricant. ) for axle journals/ bushings, motor/ worm bushings and steam valve gear/ side rods. Use another damp cloth with water to go back over the top of the tracks and remove the vinegar. You can try lubricating the axle bearing points, but a locomotive should be able to pull cars without traction tires. Mar 23, 2018 · Most model shops will have a selection of model lubricants. ) On a double slip switch, a crossing route or both diverging routes are options. With Titanium chains running 150+$ back then you were careful on how you oiled and maintained them. Jul 14, 2021 · The lubricator worked by introducing a measured amount of water to the bottom of it. I've had to clean out a few gearboxes full of hardened grease. Remember to use the Bryl Cream advice - A little dab will do ya. The MTL (Micro-Trains Line) makes 2 types of N-scale couplers – Magne-Matic knuckle and True-Scale couplers. Basically, you want grease for your gears, oil for the other parts of your drive train, and dry graphite for your axles and couplers. I have used engine oil for 45 years and never had it get gummy. Kato Unitrack, Bachmann EZ Ttrack, Atlas Code 80 and Code 55 and Peco Code 80 and Code 55. Nov 24, 2006 · Some specialty oils have additives that may attack even the compatible plastics. Train-Lubes is a lubricant specifically designed for model trains. To clean locomotive wheels, get the Trix wheel cleaner. 39. They make greases as well. Please, for the sake of your models, don’t use this. There are companies who make lubrication specifically for trains or hobby use. Proper engine lubrication ensures engine reliability and longevity. Or as a release agent on plaster/resin casting moulds. Connecticut Valley Railroad -- A Branch of the New York, New Haven, And Hartford. On the prototype, these elaborate switches are only used where speeds are low and space is very tight. We feature Lionel, American Flyer, MTH, Atlas O, Williams Trains, K-Line, Weaver Models, and more. Here are some of the most common scales: HO Scale: The HO scale is the most popular scale for model trains. Other fluids should be interchangeable for MTH, Lionel, and other brands of non-Seuthe engines, but read the labels first. The lubrication system plays an integral role in maintaining engine performance. A modellers paint brush can also be used. When selecting a lubricant, it is vital to choose one that is specifically designed for model trains. 3. It is essential to use the correct type of lubricant for each brake component, as using the wrong lubricant can cause damage or malfunction. One of my school friends used some of his mother's cooking oils and ended up with a stock of immobile Kitmasters as the plastic axles expanded. Hob-E-Lube 651 -Dry Graphite. Hobbee-lube, Labelle's, are examples. I use a light oil on bearing surfaces. Even without lubrication, the locomotive should operate, although it may run a little rough. Dec 17, 2004 · Great product. Used in moderation at that point it would probably not cause a problem with any plastic parts. The common lubricants (including 3-in-one) sold at hardware and hobby stores are safe for plastic bearings and gears. Here is a list of the most common model train scale sizes and their ratios: Z Scale – 1:220; N Scale – 1:160; HO Labelle 106 plastic compatible grease for gearbox's & worm gears and labelles 102 oil for any metal to metal applications (side rods' motor bearings etc. If you can get inside, clean off the gear surfaces to the extent you can safely, and then use a hobby or white grease that is safe for plastics. Oct 10, 2023 · There are several popular model train scales that are widely used by beginners and experienced model train enthusiasts alike. I use two grades, one light, one medium-heavy, the light for fine moving pieces, and the medium-heavy for gears and such. Model train lubrication is one of the most crucial factors. LaBelle Lubricantsare for the miniature motors and tiny gears found on model railroads. I don't believe that it was to be used as a general gear lube. I use 5/20 weight, like mentioned just a little here and there will do it. Oct 26, 2020 · There are also models that cost $20 and models that cost $1,200 so it is beginner, intermediate and advanced friendly! Although money doesn’t dictate skill level, it’s pretty true of model trains that the more you pay the better detail you’re going to get. MEDIUM DUTY OIL Best oil to use on motor bearings. 00 per year. This is the stuff that breaks up into thousands of white static filled crumbs of styrofoam. And most greases have the lighter components evaporate over time, leaving a congealed or hardened mess after a few years or decades. MTH and JT's Mega-STeam also offer an assortment of scented fluids. Briggs & Stratton® engines are designed to provide proper engine lubrication under a wide variety of operating conditions. Apply lubricant to the ends of the motor armature, axles, and any side rod screws if you’re running steam locomotives. Oil reduces engine temperature and friction between components, for Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. Thus keeping it lubed. He talks a bit about each material, and explains why certain options might be better suited for your railroad. LaBelle Model Train Lubricants have been the preferred choice of model railroaders for over 40 years. You need to use a light plastic compatible oil (Labell or equiv. Bachmann Trains - Rail Chief Ready To Run 130 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale. The exception being trains that run all day long every day, for many hours per day, which is severe service. It comes in liquid and dry forms to choose the best option for your Jun 10, 2020 · Hi Chris, I use Labelle products only on my trains. Dec 26, 2018 · On slip switches, trains can either cross the X or take one diverging route (upper left to lower left or upper right to lower right. Now, any self-healing film is likely to hold 'some' dirt or other airborne contaminants. Many of the top expert model railroaders even recommend them by name in magazine articles they write. Such a bearing may need a particular kind of lubricant, and may deserve inspection and even solvent/mechanical cleaning before finish lubing. Oiling and lubricating your locomotive’s motor and other moving components is also recommended for long-term, smooth operation. The recommended amount of oil you should use on a squirrel cage is between 3 and 5 drops. Types of Wires Used in Model Trains. Lubricate the right items - place the tiniest drop of light lubrication oil onto all the bearings, pivots and sliders including the motor bearings. LIGHT OIL is a very low viscosity oil, for lubricating moving parts, such as valve gear and car wheels. Cleaning out the gearcase and lubing w/ Labelle 106 usually does the trick, Other bushing/ bearing points should be oiled w/ plastic compatible lubricant (motor shaft, worm bearing as well as any axle and other pivot points. Apr 26, 2015 · Although I model HO scale, I use lubricants produced by ROCO. To lubricate effectively, use a small toothpick and place a small dab of lubricant on the axle. You will need to use a good-quality grease to lubricate several places on steam locomotives, such as the Apr 15, 2013 · Walthers Proto 2000 drivetrains use graphite impregnated bronze bearings and delrin "self-lubricating" gears that should not require additional lubricant. (smoke fluids too) Nov 30, 2009 · Clean wheels with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and grime (this enhances electrical pickup). Do not put lubricant on the treads of the wheels, because then it will get on the track and on the locomotive wheels too. Jul 14, 2018 · EPS is what some call styrofoam or bead board. $6. You will only need a little oil on the axles! Apr 2, 2008 · Use light-viscosity oil on the axles rather than grease. Feb 19, 2015 · Most here just use motor oil, the kind you put in a cars engine. Sep 11, 2013 · Lionel and MTH use the lightest weight oil and both offer an "un-scented" fluid which has the highest smoke volume output. A little water won’t hurt a motor as long as you let it dry thoroughly afterward, but you’ll have to take it apart Sep 11, 2017 • FAQ. Stiff nylon brushes nice for grease and applying liquid drops in odd places without an oil needle or spray can extention tube. Key, regardless of chosen 'substance', is regular cleaning to remove this followed by re-establishment of the thin, mobile, self-healing layer. You can use any light oil that is intended for use with plastics and exposure to paints. Here is a quick summary of each one. Each of the lubricants has a specific purpose. Jul 23, 2010 · Posted by servoguy on Friday, July 23, 2010 10:08 AM. Same for the siderods and valve gear. Avoid getting oil onto the wheels to maintain traction with the railroad tracks. " T " stands for. Apr 24, 2011 · Various greases have been used over the years on model engine gears. There are also some insanely funny stories as some companies tried an explanation of "conductivity on demand". Oiling and Lubrication. Dec 23, 2012 · If a motor itself is seized, moisture has deteriorated and caused corrosion to the point of seizing the shaft motor bushing. The hydrostatic lubricator needed attention only two or three times during a run where the water could be drained out and the oil Lubrication should be done sparingly, as too much oil can attract dirt and debris. White lithium grease will definitely harden with time. The lubricant should be applied evenly to avoid excessive buildup or uneven wear. Oil (lighter) is generally used for bearings. (oil drips, grease does not) Gears spin and are generally open. Classic Toy Trains magazine offers information about toy trains operating and collecting, toy train product news and reviews, toy train layout tips, toy train layout designs and track plans, and more. ) These both come highly recommended ,and may be found at most LHS that carry a good supply of model railroad products. WD 40 did fall out of favor as a lubricant. With these and any adhesives, remember to follow any warnings and use recommendations on the package. 94. Based on my above analysis, I use Labelle lubricants and ATF on my model trains. Labelle 1002 3pak Kit with one each 102,106 and 108 for N and Z Smaller Scale Model Trains Sale! $ 32. Jun 10, 2010 · I've used Labelle lubricants over the years, no problems. Jan 27, 2006 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. Adhesives for model railroads Just Google: synthetic auto transmission fluid dextron II. Use oil for bearings and grease for gears. #Ad. To remove paint/glue from rails use a track rubber. Steam locos need lots of TLC. Aug 6, 2020 · 2. ” Instead, Lionel recommends using a product called Train-Lubes. An oil would just fly off. Avoid using household oils or greases, as they may not be compatible with the materials used in your train set and can cause damage. White glue is useful for applying scenery materials such as ground foam and trees to model railroad layouts. Every single one I've ever purchased has failed in the same way. Although safe on many plastics and metals, if can damage the surface of Nov 24, 2010 · 91 posts · Joined 2013. If wear or corrosion are a concern, a lubricant / corrosion inhibitior is what you want. You lubricate using only a drop. Jan 30, 2010 · Reply. The scented fluids produce noticeably less smoke, but they can be used to highten the level of realism. As far as South Florida goes, you will only find 1" or less in the big box stores. Nov 12, 2012 · It should be noted that the product in question was used on the metal to metal connection between the Athearn truck bolster and the mating pin on the frame. In the majority of cases, trains that previously worked but now stop and start are caused by dirt on the wheels, track or the gears that need oiling. Some months ago there was a big discussion about lubricants. OIL is a high quality general purpose oil. The gears should have all of their teeth. Joe Fugate . The oiling tips included in the name brand train lube products can make some lube jobs a lot easier. Too much lube causes cleanliness problems. Dec 29, 2010 · Arcing inside will just turn that lube to sludge, then taffy, then enamel. Just a drop or two. Check to make sure all the wheels on your cars are free-rolling. WD-40. Use a static-free cloth to wipe off any excess oil. com. It’s commonly thinned with water to apply scenery texturing materials. Labelle 106 plastic compatible grease for gearbox's & worm gears and labelles 102 oil for any metal to metal applications (side rods' motor bearings etc. Use a small amount of oil on the moving parts of your trains, such as the axles and gears. Before lubing, check for a buildup of “gunk” on the bearing surface. In this article, we explore some of the key points that need to be considered when researching, planning and building model railway baseboards. Make sure you use cleaners that are non abrassive and don't leave oily residue (they pick up dust & dirt the loco enemy). On the gear train use Labelle 106 grease with PTFE, grease because it does not evaporate or run off and the gears are often harder to access Oil on the valve gear and wheel bearings, Use a paper clip or micro oiler as only very small amounts are required and it is not needed on the track and only attracts dust. I would strongly suggest plastic compatible lubricants since most, if not all have plastic near the point lubed. Suitable Lubricants My experience has led me to use the following: Fleischmann 6599 oil: coach, wagon and loco axle & armature bearings Labelle 102 gear oil Aug 15, 2011 · HL655 is the one The grease is very good on gears, although I prefer the NG gel grease from another company. Lubricants that are used by model train enthusiasts or any kind of model hobbyist. Others have used automatic transmission fluid (ATF) with good results. (OK to apply directly to motor brushes and bearings). May 23, 2024 · This can make it even harder for the engine to pull the cars, which can cause issues for your Lionel Train engine as well. An inexpensive lube is synthetic 5 weight auto lube. Be sure to use a lubricant specifically designed for model trains, as other types of oil may damage the plastic components. Let it dry thoroughly. Others swell and become soft. Same stuff that is used in e cigarettes. And that’s it! Like we said above, if you’ve got a really hard part to clean, try adding some salt to the mixture. Of course, I don’t recommend you dunk a locomotive or anything with a motor in it. For instance, HO scale has a ratio of 1:87, meaning that 1 unit of measurement on the model train represents 87 units in real life. As with anything mechanical, you’ll need to maintain your model trains to preserve their condition. For full replacement use SAE 140 or SAE 85W-140 gear oil with an API rating of GL-4 only. How do you maintain model trains? Use a static-free cloth to wipe off any excess oil. Also, keep in mind that the types of rollers will impact Jul 11, 2009 · But its best kept as a grease type lube where its stickyness is also wanted - like on gears or metal parts that also need protection from corrosion. Four E-Z Lube® products are offered: light gear oil, heavy duty grease, heavy gear oil, and conductive contact lubricant. Mar 9, 2010 · If you are using oils, make sure you use oils with a needle applicator bottle (like Hob-e-lube from Woodland Scenics) and VERY gently squeeze the bottle until the oil just barely comes out, and touch it to the gears on the drive train, repeat this as needed until your model is properly lubricated. Graphite is kind of messy. This is sort of like lubricating a sewing machine. Nov 16, 2021 · Generally, grease on the gears, and oil on the bearings - don't forget the pick up rollers either. Its a mixture of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. Mar 21, 2023 · In my latest video I look at six different types of N Scale track. Metal gears require a heavier gear lubricant. Feb 19, 2007 · Otherwise, use a light hobby oil that is safe for plastics and paints on your axle ends and bearings, every wheel, including the tenders and trucks on steamers. For years, I've used Lionel grease on the gears, and 3 in 1 oil on the bearings. The lubrication process involves applying a thin layer of lubricant to the brake components. Oct 19, 2023 · If you do not find any, then try to oil the shaft or other areas close to the bushings. A grease however can be slung off, but some will always stay on the gear. The only thing that some might use a tacky lube is for a worm gear. May 21, 2024 · Modelers with large spaces may use O scale to create detailed and majestic scenes. Again, if you can identify the type of engine and number, I can provide specific directions. It can be used on all points on accessories, that require oil. Often they use a narrow-gauge version (On30) to model industries such as logging railroads. Fleischmann wagon bearing oil is too thin for use in Hornby live steam cylinders. There are several types of wires used in model train layouts, each with its own specific purpose. Jan 13, 2023 · No, WD40 is not recommended for use on Lionel trains. What lubricant should be used in the tiller transmission case? In the past the rule was: For partial fill-ups (a few ounces or less) use SAE 140, SAE 85W-140 or SAE 80W-90 weight gear oil with an API rating of GL-4 or GL-5. 1. It’s a bit more abrasive and will help scrub May 3, 2020 · When planning a model railway one of the first considerations will be the baseboard. Hob-E-Lube (by Woodland Scenics) is also a good brand. In this section, we will explore the top model train sets for , including the Bachmann Trains Chattanooga HO Scale Train Set, Lionel Polar Express Train Set, and Kato USA Model Train Starter Set. Some cleaning materials and products can damage or harm the plastic and paintwork on your models, as I’ve learnt to my cost. There are many aspects to consider such as where the layout will be located, the ideal height, and choice of materials. #28 · Dec 8, 2013. The most common types of wires include: Bus wires – used to carry power to various areas of the layout; Track wires – used to connect the track to the power source The scale ratio of a model train represents the proportion of the model to the actual train. I also avoid using oil near the pickup rollers, but I do use a degreaser to clean the moving parts, especially the pickup rollers themselves. 77. Some plastics just crumble some time after being exposed to mineral oil. The water, being heavier than the oil, forced the oil through feeds in its top to tubing to valve chambers and even the air pump. So when you are buying a lubricant for your trains are you just browsing the shelves of the local hobby store to find something you “think” might. Products contain the highest quality lubricants available today and are specifically formulated for the miniature motors and tiny gears found on model railroads. . Feb 3, 2011 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. I still recommend 5W-20 engine oil as I know for sure it doesn't harden or get gummy. Such as: • For HO, S, O, Lionel, and Garden size scale model railroads. Types of model train oil There are several types of model train oil available on the market, and it's important to choose the right one for your specific model train. So unless you are running trains many hours every day, the cost advantage of motor oil will be real but modest. However, the bottle has a fatal flaw: I've been buying Bachmann Trains - E-Z LUBE - CONDUCTIVE CONTACT LUBE in the 1 fluid ounce size for years. Also, a drop or two of light weight oil at the top of the motor armature will also help. Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. Oct 22, 2021 · For bearings, I use Excelle heavy or light or Labelle 107. Sep 6, 2020 · Often this will be some type of Oilite bearing (which is sintered material, sometimes of more than one 'particle' type or size) and some or all of the 'oil channels' to the journal may be coked up or dirty. Photobug said: The liquid that produces the model train smoke is entirely or almost entirely propylene glycol. Learn how to clean model train tracks and wheels on engines and stock by applying non-petroleum lubricant. TrainWorld has a large selection of hobby lube or hobby lubricants for any hobbyist. None of which get thumbs up from the engineers who design electric motors. These oils To help you figure out which kind of model railroad roadbed will work best for the unique needs of your layout, NMRA Master Modeler Gerry Leone introduces the most common materials modelers use to support their trackage. May 17, 2021 · If it helps any, grease (heavier) is used in places like gears. Jan 18, 2022 · Technically it makes sense with complex environment of an engine. One just uses motor oil on everything. The absolute best connection is clean, bare metal. After the oil is in place manually turn the squirrel cage so the oil can penetrate. Kato Unitrack: Super durable and easy to use and the by far the widest variety of different track lengths, curve radius options, and double track options. Nov 30, 2009 · Clean wheels with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and grime (this enhances electrical pickup). LaBelle Lubricants are formulated from the finest raw materials available from chemical and petroleum industries and are specifically formulated for the Dec 11, 2023 · White glue is a synthetic polyvinyl acetate emulsion adhesive that dries clear. Sep 14, 2021 · The ability of Kadee N-scale scale couplers to uncouple magnetically and re-engage without locking immediately is an awesome thing to see as your model train rolls through the yard. Some use a white lithium, some use Lucas red & tacky lube. 77 Current price is: $28. Jul 31, 2006 · Labelle sells the best lubes for model trains, you'll have to look to a hobby shop to get but they are the best I've used. You'll have a lifetime supply of loco lubricant that will never go bad on you for a few dollars. Axle bearings on both cars and locos, larger HO Locomotives, including Steam Engine valve What not to use when cleaning model trains. P2K engines that have been de-buttered and lubed with proper lubes run a bit better. This is the only oil I use for conductive points on my HO scale electric model trains. Feb 7, 2010 · Josh - LaBelle make a complete set of special plastic compatible lubricants for ALL types of model trains, sold in a set for about $15-17. In particular, avoid using the following. 4. I reserve silicone spray for snow shovels and saw blades. Apply like make-up, dust on with a small designated paint brush. This will help the engine run smoother. Train America Studios sells a type of Sep 21, 2014 · Dielectric grease is used to prevent water intrusion and as a lubricant / release agent but it would not be my first choice. For a beginner, the $100-200 is sort of an entry-level price! Aug 24, 2007 · Seuthe fluid has a slightly different chemical makeup than Lionel or MTH fluid. The light gear oil is for use on all gears, bushings, shafts, and bolsters. Jan 5, 2023 · 13378 posts · Joined 2014. 3 days ago · How to Clean Model Train Tracks and Wheels Join Model Railroad Academy to continue watching for $10. I have obtained a few units that were one toss from the scrap heap. If Lionel or MTH fluid is used in a Seuthe unit, it won’t heat up properly and the unit won’t work. There are a few cases when a heavy oil will be OK for gears. Model train enthusiasts should conduct regular checkups of the locomotive’s gears, wheels, tires, carbon brushes, and commutator. Please call 718-436-7072 or e-mail orders@trainworld. 1,000,000 model train lubricants. Labelle #107 is an extremely versatile lubricating oil and has an unlimited number of light-duty uses for home, office, or lab. May 8, 2006 · WD40 isn't much good to lublicate anything properly especially your trains. Safe on babys bottoms and used as a body protection film / on skin for over a century so its an extremely non aggressive material. For example, Hornby steam cylinder oil is too thick for use elsewhere. A loose laymans rule because there are exceptions. It is non-shedding and will not ''sling off''. I have used it on my ROCO, Atlas, and Walhters locomotives without any problems. To recap, for a layout substrate, you want Extruded Polystyrene (Pink, Green, Blue). We use a tiny pipette to dispense the correct amount of oil. Here are five top glue types often used by beginners. It actually is a great cleaner and in a sense de-greaser we used it to clean the bike after a race or training run (daily) then we would lubricate the bike for the next run. The heavy gear oil lubricates for extended periods of Mar 22, 2022 · In model railroading, choosing the right glue or adhesive is often the best way to successfully complete a satisfying model or model railroad layout. $ 28. For gears and worm use Label #106 which is a light plastic compatible grease. We feature beginner and advanced help on all model railroading scales, including layout track plans, model railroad product reviews, model train news, and model railroad forums. One note, if your locomotives have traction tires on any of the wheels, make sure whatever lubricant you use, does not get on the tires as it will cause them to break over a eriod of time. What not to use when cleaning model trains. Just a drop or so is all that is needed. It has a scale of 1:87 and a gauge of 16. 13. Ratios include 1:32; 1:29; 1:24; 1:22. At full strength, it’s useful for bonding wood and similarly porous materials. 5mm. According to the Lionel website, “WD-40 will damage the plastic and paint on your train. Both oil and grease are lubricants or lube for short. Check your wheels regularly, but only lubricate them as you need to. 1 2. To oil locomotive gears, use cleaning oil or Gaugemaster lubricator. Jun 7, 2018 · All good suggestions. Here are some of the most common types of model train oil: Synthetic oils: Synthetic oils are a popular choice because they offer superior lubrication and protection. qj fs fe yz pc rk qs lm fq qy