Hello, first post, hoping to get some advice regarding an "027" train set

18 or even better, 16 gauge wire for a small layout is fine. I use color-coded 18-gauge stranded speaker wire for my "twice around the tree" O-27 layout and 14-gauge stranded wire for my permanent O-27 layout.

Hi George- welcome to the Forum. Lot's of great folks here who are happy to help.

If the set hasn't been run in a while I would open up the engine and clean everything. The grease in the gears should be removed and replaced since it may have hardened over time. The motor commutator may need to be cleaned as well along with the reversing E-unit.

Not sure how adventurous you are or your level of technical skill but there are videos on youtube you can watch.

A drop of lightweight oil on all of the car axles will make them roll freely too.

Track should be cleaned as well, a scotchbrite pad with rubbing alcohol works well. Do the connector pins and inside the ends of the tubular track too.

To the wiring- some good quality 14 or 16 gauge speaker wire will be fine for track power. Check the cord on the transformer for any signs of cracking or damage too.

If you provide the set number and more detail of what you have you will get lot's of advice and pointers.

Post some pix too.

Bob

Welcome aboard George!!

Post some pics when it's up and running!!

Welcome George!

I would add that you need to inspect the 1044's power cord to ensure it is flexible and free of any cracks or deterioration.  Also, test the transformer's circuit breaker by placing a screw driver on both the U and A binding posts.  You should hear a ping/click after a few seconds and power will be interrupted.  A properly working circuit breaker protects the transformer from melting down.  It also protects the wiring from over heating assuming it is properly sized (16 gauge is probably good for a small conventional layout).  I just use 16 gauge stranded speaker wire for my conventional layout.  I would steer you towards copper over aluminum wiring.