How to Use Automatic Transmission Fluid to Lubricate Model Railroad Locomotives

Model locomotives such as this one require rare but thorough maintainance to their moving parts.

Model railroad locomotives have very complex arrays of gears and moters which can easily seize up and wear out over time if not maintained properly. Unfortunately for hobbyists, specific lubricating oil for locomotives is usually either cheap and ineffective, or much more expensive. Alternative solutions are rarely used, because of the unique requirements for locomotive lubricant. Recently, a cheap and very effective alternative has been found in automotive transmission fluid, which can be applied liberally and without too much preparation.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Small paintbrush
• Paper towel

Instructions

1. Remove the plastic shell covering the moving pars of the locomotive. Use the phillips screwdriver to remove all the screws from the bottom which secure it in place, and use the flat head screwdriver to carefully lever the shell away from the locomotive's base.

2. Apply transmission fluid to all of the moving parts using the paintbrush. Gears, axles, and brackets should all receive a liberal coating of the fluid, but be careful not to drip any fluid into the electronic motor (usually a silver cylinder mounted horizontally).

3. Use paper towl to dab away excess fluid. The fluid will leave a protective residue on everything it touches, so don't worry about dabbing away too much fluid.

4. Replace the plastic shell of the locomotive using the flat head and phillips screwdrivers.

Tips & Warnings

• Transmission fluid is very cheap, has a high viscosity (slipperiness) and varying temperatures, and does not conduct electricity. This makes it excellent for use in model locomotives, as excess fluid will not damage or short circuit the innerworkings.

• Never use water to clean the inside of your locomotive. If you want to clean the moving parts before you lubricate them, use cotton swabs and rubbing alchohol.