Marx 666 Steamer-How do I tune it up?

[Anonymous]

I just bought a 666 Marx Steamer and was wondering how I can get it to run better? It is the Cast iron steamer and is heavier than my 999 but when I put it on the track it doesn't run nearly as fast as the 999. I think it needs a tune up, but what can be done to make it drive better? What can I do to tune it up?

I also need front trucks for it if someone knows where to find them.

[Anonymous]

Probably that 666 Marx needs new brushes or brush springs or both. While you got apart, you might as well change them both out.
A good general cleaning and lubrication would also help.

If you have a Home Depot/Lowe's/Menards nearby head into the electrical supply departmen and get some spray type electrical contact cleaner.
Run the motor and spray the cleaner everywhere you reach with the tube.
Make sure you have an old towel/diaper to catch the overflow.

Also pickup some white lithium grease while at the above stores.
You can use the spray kind but I like the tube or tub type because I can apply it with a toothpick. This is one of the areas where "a little dab will do ya"
Also lube the plunger of the E-unit(if it has one)
Now you can use the contact cleaner/white grease on Lionel/Marx trains but not on any that have alot of plastic parts

Any other questions on train repairs/part sources email me direct at [e-mail]