My Lionel 6-8775 Lehigh Valley GP-9 [single motor] sparks from the powered trucks. I have reoiled and regreased the wheels, rollers, and gears but it still sparks. Any suggestions? Thanks. RParmentier
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Well, cleaning the track is another factor. However, there are some locomotives, and the AC motored ones are usually the culprits, that have some sparking no matter what you do. Some conductive lube on the rollers frequently will help some.
Yes, cleaning the track is helpful. I use 90% Isopropyl Alcohol, but other hobbyists select other products - like Mineral Spirits. Also, clean the pick-up rollers and the wheels while you're at it. I place the loco in a foam cradle upside down then clip wires from a 1033 transformer to a pick-up roller and a grounded place on the loco. With the engine motor running, clean the driving and other wheels with an alcohol-soaked Q-tip -- much much easier and better.
There are several versions of track cleaning cars in the marketplace. I own several of them. I favor the one with rollers set at an angle to the rails - for a "scrubbing" action; not merely a "rolling" action. However, a low-tech method works too -- a soaked rag and "elbow grease,"
Carry on ... regardless
Mike M. LCCA 12394
