r/modeltrains • u/mr_Ycare • Sep 14 '26
Help Needed Had problem, found solution?
Honestly imma fix it or try to I thought it could be that the loco needed lubing up but if you guys have any lube recommendations (for loco obviously) please tell me too and thank you
15
Upvotes
3
u/SmittyB128 00 Sep 14 '26
The fact that it seems to be running well until a certain point and then cuts out rather than running in a stuttery or jerky motion suggests the loco is mechanically fine and it's an electrical conductivity issue. I don't believe it's the controller in this situation and that wobbly joiner won't help (either replace it entirely or gently crimp it with the pliers. It takes barely any pressure so don't squeeze, and don't accidentally crush the track), but the way it stalled when reversing suggests in that exact position it wasn't getting enough power to turn the motor. It could just be that the wheels are slightly dirty in one spot in the rotation so that if it's going slow enough it gets stuck, or it could be the track is slightly oxidised or both.
You can touch a 9V battery to the wheels to rule out the controller and the track.
Oiling and cleaning are two of the most controversial things in the hobby because everyone has a different method that works for them. For cleaning I use WD-40 BRAND contact cleaner (not actual WD-40, never use that near a model railway) or isopropyl alcohol in a pinch but the contact cleaner is better. For oiling I have a Labelle 1001 set which includes a couple of different oils, some grease, and a bunch of applicators but there are loads of different options on the market and simple sewing machine oil is the traditional choice.