Lubricating Oil for your model Trains

Model train oil is a specialized lubricant that is used to keep model trains running smoothly. Whether you're a serious model railroad enthusiast or just starting out, proper maintenance of your train is critical to ensure its longevity and functionality. In this article, we'll explore the importance of model train oil and the various types available.
Why is model train oil important?
Model train oil is important because it helps to lubricate the gears, bearings, and other moving parts of your train. This lubrication reduces friction and prevents wear and tear, which is especially important for those who operate their trains frequently. Without proper lubrication, your train may not run as smoothly, and over time, may even stop working altogether.
Another benefit of using model train oil is that it helps to keep the train quiet. Friction can cause noise, and regular application of oil can reduce noise levels. This is particularly important if you're setting up a train display in a quiet environment, like a library or a museum.
Types of model train oil
There are several types of model train oil available on the market, and it's important to choose the right one for your specific model train. Here are some of the most common types of model train oil:

1. Synthetic oils: Synthetic oils are a popular choice because they offer superior lubrication and protection. These oils are made from chemically engineered compounds and are ideal for model trains that require a high level of lubrication. Synthetic oil is highly recommended for all of your model trains, not only on the engines but also on each cars wheels.  Although a good quality synthetic oil may be a little more expensive than other lubricating oils, if you weigh it out oil to oil, your best bet is a good quality Synthetic oil. Because you are using such a small amount and using a good quality Synthetic oil, you will not need to oil your model trains as often.    A good quality synthetic will stay were you put it, it will be safe on all metals as well as safe on plastic, it will not dry out as quickly as other oils nor will it collect dust, dirt and grime as an oil of lesser quality will. 
   
   
2. Mineral oils: Mineral oils are the most commonly used lubricants in model railroading. They are derived from crude oil and somewhat of a decent lubrication for most model trains. Mineral oils are also relatively inexpensive and readily available. Most commercial model train oils available are nothing but mineral oil.  Mineral oils will breakdown quicker and many of them will attract dust, dirt and grime quickly requiring you to clean and re-oil your model trains more often. Although they are relatively inexpensive, using plain mineral oil is typically not your best choice in the long run , nor the best choice on you more expensive locomotives and cars.  
   
   
3. Teflon-based oils: Teflon-based oils contain Teflon, a non-stick material that reduces friction and wear. These oils are designed  for model trains that require a high level of lubrication but don't want to attract dust or debris.  (Teflon is not the name of a specific product or chemical. Over the years, the Teflon® brand has become so well known that it has established itself as a generic term for the substance, PTFE)  The  problem we have seen, heard and read with using PTFE is that every time you use lubricating oils with PTFE (Teflon), is the PTFE will attach to the item you are lubricating, which sounds good or normal, however  each time you use the lubricating oil with PTFE the PTFE will build up onto the item being lubricated. On a precision mechanical device this build up over time will become problematic.  Think of the Axle and wheel on a boxcar.  The axle has a small tip on the end that will protrude pass the truck frame, the truck frame has a small hole that the tip of the axle will ride in. This hole is sized perfectly for the axle tip to ride in so there isn't and wobbling or bouncing on the car.  As you continue to use a lubricant with Teflon (PTFE) in it the PTFE will start to build, if it builds up too much (and it will) the tip will become larger than the hole building up friction allowing the car to start to drag. Thinking there might be a lubricating problem you will add more lubricant  ( with PTFE) building up another layer.  You can see where this is going, eventually the axle tips will lock up an you will be dragging your car instead of the wheels turning freely.  Using this lubricant on you expensive engine is probably one of the worst things you can do.    
   
   
   

How to apply model train oil:

When applying model train oil, it's important to use a small amount and to apply it directly to the moving parts of your train. It is best to use  precision oiler needles to ensure that the oil is applied precisely where it's needed. Blunt oil dispensing needles come in may sizes. If you use a large size dispensing needle you run the risk of adding too much lubricating oil to the spot you are trying to lubricate. It is best to use a small gauge needle around a 22 gauge - 24 gauge    dispensing needle. Make sure you use a blunt dispensing needle and not a sharp ponied one for your safety. When adding oil to any mechanical equipment keep in mind that if you add too much lubricating oil, the lubricating oil will start to run out of the spot you just oiled, once it starts to run the lubricating oil will act like a siphon and will start to pull all the fresh (and old if there is any ) lubricating oil out, leaving your model train running dry. It's also important to clean your train regularly and to remove any excess oil that may have accumulated, mixing fresh new lubricating oil with dirty old lubricating oil will result in your new lubricating oil breaking down and drying out faster.

Conclusion
Proper maintenance of your model train is critical to ensure its longevity and functionality. Using the right type of model train oil can help to keep your train running smoothly and quietly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can effectively apply oil to your model train and ensure that it continues to run smoothly for years to come.

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