Comments on: Using Automatic Transmission Fluid on Trains and Track?

By: Kiba

Kiba — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 14:57:20 +0000

I know this thread is old, but I’m very new to model railways. I’ve started at a rural museum that has a “working” model railway. They said it was broken, with odd stories about the engines being picked up and dropped. I couldn’t see any damage. I took an engine home and dismantled it. I discovered the wheels and contacts to the wheels were dark black. Using a fine small wire brush I cleaned everything so it was all copper shiny. I reassemble and using a DC PSU I tested it. Now works great. I don’t think anyone as cleaned anything regarding this train system in min 3 years (that was the last it worked) I bet many more years before that. I’m happy to repeat the train cleaning, but the tracks are high up and go into walls etc.This is a long-winded question, but will this transmission fluid risk damaging the engines rubber wheels?

By: tom crofton

tom crofton — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 16:37:07 +0000

a major study has been done by Joe Fugate and there are electrical properties of some fluids that are good for transmission and reduce oxidation. ATF is a modern one.

By: Frank

Frank — Sat, 21 Dec 2019 00:58:12 +0000

I use full synthetic auto fluid. Doesn’t harm plastic etc as new autos have computer blocks inside the transmission and are slashed with oil all the time.

By: David Stokes

David Stokes — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 00:41:08 +0000

In reply to Frank B. In interesting observation about the properties of nickel silver track Frank. I use Peco flextrack and points which are nickel silver, and unlike many of my fellow modellers I have very few problems with "dirty" track and I don't do anything to my rails other than an occasional dusting with a clean paint brush or soft cloth.

By: Frank B

Frank B — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 23:18:58 +0000

Basically, ordinary lubricating oil will help prevent corrosion, but will reduce traction. This may not be a problem on fairly level track, but on gradients it might make difference.

However, modern nickel silver track only needs to be wiped clean, as any oxide is conductive.

By: Kevin Ching

Kevin Ching — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 22:41:59 +0000

Hi Kerry
I use ATF on my rails and just a minute drop every 3 to 6 ft and let the wheels distribute it along the track it lasts up to 3 months and eliminates the use of a track rubber every time before you run the trains.

By: Morgan Bilbo

Morgan Bilbo — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 22:36:07 +0000

That is a valid use. The plastic safe ATF is what to use. I know of people who use it and like it. I also know people who use alcohol and like it. And various other liquids. mineral spirits. I so suggest however, that you rub it on the top of the rail and inside edge carefully. I use acetone, which can ruin plastic. But I’m careful and make sure it don’t get on PECO ties.