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Old HO Engines
Tom has a question for readers on model train maintenance and asks:
“I have several HO engines that have not been used for 17 or 18 years. When I put them on the track they try to run, a little noise, flickering headlight, etc, but will not take off and go. I have cleaned the track and have tried to clean the wheels so they make a good connection, but I still can’t get them to run like they used to. A couple of them will run continuously but not very fast. What should I do to get them to work again?
I am mechanically inclined enough to take them apart and clean them, but I wanted to see if there was an easier fix before I do that. I would appreciate any help.”
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Tom,
The most likely problem you’re having is related to lubrication. Think how an actual automobile would run if it sat for a decade or two. Not too good I would think. The light oils on your equipment have probably evaporated or got all gummy by now so if you relubricated or ‘tore them down’ and cleaned the friction areas like axles and gears you’ll probably see a big improvement. Use the LaBelle brand of hobby oils that are designed for small motors and stuff like we use and you should be able to get them at your local hobby shop or here on line.
Hope this helps.
Geof from the US
I got few old engines to.Theres one thing to check, its the brushes on the motors. If theres any dirt or oil the connections it make it run slowly. And check the connections to the wheels also can effect the the operation too. Hope that solves your problem. Louis
Just pull them apart and give them a good clean. Many times the old lube has turned into a sticky gel or a peanut buttery paste, the only way to deal with it is a thorough cleaning.