Care and Repair of Lionel Model Trains
Cleaning
The best way to avoid damaging your Lionel model trains and removing dust from your model train locomotive and cars is to use a small, soft, dry paint brush. Sometimes, a very soft toothbrush used with warm water and a tiny amount of dish soap may be used to remove extreme dirt or stains. Never use powdered laundry detergent, as it can destroy the paint on your model trains. Always use extreme caution when cleaning printed surfaces, as scrubbing can easily damage, or remove the paint. Avoid using household cleaners, such as sprays containing ammonia, as they can destroy the paint or damage the plastic surface. Lionel model trains have extremely sensitive red paint. Experts often suggest never cleaning surfaces that are painted bright red.
Lionel locomotives are a hardy breed. A Lionel locomotive that has been idle for long periods of time may start running again if put on clean, corrosion-free track and gently guided by hand over the track with power applied.
Maintenance
Using a light machine oil, axles can be lubricated with less than a drop. Gears can be lubricated using light grease. Surprisingly, WD-40 or similar oil types aren't recommended on Lionel train locomotives gear mechanisms.
Frayed wiring is a shock and fire hazard. It should be replaced.
The wheels on Lionel train cars should also be lubricated. A small amount of a light oil should be applied with a small, fine tool. Household oils such as WD-40 are fine for this purpose.
For cleaning corrosion from model train tracks, use a fine sandpaper, such as 800 grit. Wipe down your track after sanding. Your track can be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol.
NOTE! Steel wool should never be used on any model train track. The steel particles are drawn to the magnets in the locomotive motor and will destroy the motor.
Never run your model train set on a corroded track layout, as debris from the track will work its way into the locomotive and prevent it from functioning properly. If your track cannot be made free from corrosion or rust, it should be replaced with a suitable part available from our store.
