Christmas layout folks. When do you do your loco maintenance and wheel cleaning?

Pickled w/ fresh where needed this year, mine are ready to go at any time in the near or distant future as synthetics are used.

Is Red and Tacky 2 considered synthetic (lithium and polymers). If so, do I need less frequent application?

The Looney Tunes Express got a workout under the tree this year as usual.  I lube BEFORE it hits the track.  The last time is was used was last year under the tree and it looked and sounded dry.  Labelle 107 and some white lithium grease for the gears.

Yes, lube as needed.  I don't need it much after initial cleaning & application.  It pretty much stays put.

Switch to Labelle 108 synthetic and it won't need as much attention.

After dismantling the layout and storing all buildings and scenery which I've dusted clean, I then oil cars' axels, check couplers, dust and vacuum their bodies, check for any loose, broken or missing detail pieces, etc. all done before storing them in their boxes. For engines I do the same plus suggested run time maintenance even if the suggested run time threshold hasn't yet been met. (Most locos are displayed in locked, glass curio cabinets in family room while a few others are relegated to plastic storage bins too.When all that's been done, I then thoroughly clean dust and oxidation from fastrack rails before safely boxing the pieces. All boxes are then stored in plastic bins containing silica gel in basement which has a year-round constant temperature of 60 degrees farenheit and relative humidity ranging from 38 to 40%. While some might see this as overkill I see it as wise considering the $$$ I've invested in trains over the years..