I have operated N-scale railroads for several years. I used to always oil and grease my locomotives. About eight years ago, someone recomended using only oil on N-scale since it was so small. Ever since then I have not used grease, only oil, and my locomotives seem to run fine. Recently, I read an article about not using any liquid lubricants at all in a locomotive, except the motor bushings. It said to use dry teflon lube on gears instead.
Do any of you have any opinions on this?
Thank you
------------------ Elias Valley Railroad (N-scale) www.geocities.com/evrr
Posted by Kennedy Model Trains (Member # 808) on :
I usually use a small amount of silicon lube on gears, and a light oil or graphite on the motor, and graphite only on axles. I use the silicon because it sticks where it is placed, but is extremely slippery, and becomes slicker with more pressure. It also does not react with plastics. But it is VERY important not to use too much, as any excess will wind up on the track.