| Maintenance of Scale Model Diesel Locomotives |
| Written by Daryl Clayton Kennedy |
| Tuesday, 24 November 2009 09:43 |
|
Model train sets today arrive at you door ready to run. In no way does this imply completely dismissing pre operations testing.
Model train sets today arrive at you door ready to run. In no way does this imply completely dismissing pre operations testing. More than likely your locomotives chassis will be a snap to release. Seriously... it will snap off once you spread the bottom of the casting. After casting lugs release chassis, inspect for obvious defections such as bound gears, strange noises, and slower than normal push offs. If your loco isn't sitting on the track with ease, you may want to inspect your trucks for adjusting. 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! Mechanical Checks Are Always Wise Following Wheel Cleanings 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. While you have your truck assembly detached it's a grand time to clean electrical surfaces within the truck. These surfaces guide currents and their information directly to your decoder. 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. About the Author: Be sure to check out Daryl's Website surrounding model trains, you may also stop in to read thomas trian engine reviews. |