I just picked up a couple of K-Line S-2 switchers. They have dual motors and metal gears on the wheels but plastic gears on the rest of the drive trains. I am wondering what type of lube to use on these. I normally use red 'n tacky on all my locos with metal gears.
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That's what I use on metal and plastic. Haven't noticed a problem yet.
I use these and pull the cabs for my small electric locos. I must say they are not the smoothest running engines. Don
The performance of these little engines can be improved if the motors are connected in series, rather than the parallel hook up that they come with. Top speed is slightly reduced but who runs switchers fast, anyway? I know that this is not about lubrication but I think that you resolved that problem, yourself.
Paul Fischer
If the plastic gears are nylon or delrin they don't need grease. It will only cause more drag. Only lubricate the metal to metal gears.
Pete
Norton posted:If the plastic gears are nylon or delrin they don't need grease. It will only cause more drag. Only lubricate the metal to metal gears.
Pete
Pete: I'm not sure about delrin, but they are not nylon. They just look like shiny black plastic.
Delrin is usually either white or black, most of what I have come across is black. It is superior to nylon and self lubricating. If there is enough of it to put a finger on it it should have a slippery feel.
If you are not sure, Labelle makes a line of plastic safe oils and greases. Most hobby shops carry it.
Pete
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