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How to Grease a Model Railroad Engine

Model train enthusiasts have collected miniature trains since production began in Germany during the early 1800s. Collectors often prefer to keep their trains on display only, while other collectors gain satisfaction from showcasing their collections in motion. Modern collectors often design sophisticated track layouts for the enjoyment of large audiences and other model train collectors. Periodic maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, is important to keep model trains running at peak performance. Cleaning and lubricating the engine may be all that's necessary to resolve a sluggish performance.

Things You'll Need

Model train lubricant
Isopropyl rubbing alcohol
Cotton swabs
Toothpicks
Small clean soft cloth
Small screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Expose the engine by removing the cover. Depress the plastic tabs located on the bottom side of the engine car. Remove small screws that secure the engine cover to the engine components if plastic tabs are not available.
- 2
  Use a soft-grade toothbrush to remove surface dirt and debris from the engine and surrounding area.
- 3
  Degrease and clean the engine surface with cotton swabs lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Use the tip of a toothpick immersed in alcohol to reach between engine parts that are inaccessible with a cotton swab. Be careful not to leave cotton fibers adhered to the engine surface while cleaning.
- 4
  Remove the cover plate of the commutator located on the side of the engine. The commutator consists of copper segments situated at the end of the motor's armature. Slowly rotate the gears manually while cleaning with cotton swabs and alcohol to ensure complete coverage of surface area. The area where the carbon brushes meet the armature are particularly susceptible to grime build-up.
- 5
  Apply engine lubricant sparingly to the cleaned engine surfaces. Use a toothpick or small wire dipped in lubricant to grease between crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Remove excess lubricant with a toothpick or cotton swab.
- 6
  Clean the inside of the engine cover with mild soap and water to remove debris trapped by lubricant residue. Be careful not to let alcohol or lubricant come into contact with the engine cover to prevent degradation of the metal or plastic.
- 7
  Reattach the commutator cover and engine cover before testing on the track.

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