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How to Unclog Loco Smoke Unit

Jack S asks readers:

“I just dug out my old O scale loco that has a smoke unit and whistle. It has been sitting in a box for years and I think the smoker is clogged up. What’s the best way to fix it?”

4 Responses to How to Unclog Loco Smoke Unit

  • R. Allen says:

    If it is the powder/pill type have it changed! I took my Lionel 675 steamer in and had it converted to liquid smoke. Works like a charm and was not overly expensive. If you can find the old “pills” on line one one two bottles will likely cost more than the conversion.

  • Frank B says:

    General advice: If the old oil has dried out, some kind of (mild) solvent should clean it out. Possibly a soak in (maybe warm) paraffin (that’s kerosene in the USA), and gently poke where necessary with a cotton bud or similar. Just be careful to avoid damaging the wire element.

    If you could post details of the unit, even a picture, someone who has the same one could advise better.

  • John Bethell says:

    Both Good answers. Sometimes just filling the smoke unit to the brim of the funnel, with smoke oil, and letting it stand for a day or two will dissolve the dried out residue, but remember to drain it and refill properly before running normally..

  • Charles says:

    If these don’t work, soak the smoke unit in white vinegar for a few days. Not much oil-wise that this won’t dissolve!

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