I would advise against using any grease as it will probably harden over time and create a problem.
I recommend 5W-20 motor oil for everything. I have used motor oil for 60 years without a problem. I had a 2025 in storage for 45 years and it did not need cleaning or lube when I took it out of the box. It ran just fine. Can't say the same for several locos I have purchased recently. I actually am thankful for the grease as I was able to purchase these engines at a good price because they were locked up. I don't use 3 in 1 oil, grease, WD-40, light machine oil, etc. for my trains. I have too many engines to be taking them apart frequently for cleaning and lube. Two days ago, I put a #44 U S Army rocket launcher on the track that hadn't been run in 10+ years, and it ran just fine.
That is the correct model. I am currently using B-U. The lever is on 5 (high) and the 81 is also on full.
That is the hookup on the box of the 81. I noticed the transformer lever was on 3 (middle) when I got it out of the box, must of been the position it was left in when put away.
Your recommendation makes sense, I am on 18 (full) now and am on sort of a minimum speed. So if I move to A-U which starts at 17(minimum) and goes up, I should have a little more room for adjustment.
TrainLarry...For your transformer setup, try the highest voltage combination first, then the next lower until you find a setup that works for you.
I would Use posts A-U and adjust the top switch starting at the 17 volt setting and work your way up to get good operation. If the lowest setting is too fast at almost full speed, then switch to the B-U posts.
There were different versions of type T. Is this yours?
Rob
Absolutely lubricate both ends of the armature. This is the single most important lubrication you can do. Don't run it much at all until you do this.
Martin
A basic lubrication on the engine can be done without taking it apart. A few drops of oil on the axle bearings, and a little grease on the gears is all it takes. If you can get to the ends of the armature, a drop of oil on the bearings will help the motor a lot.
For your transformer setup, try the highest voltage combination first, then the next lower until you find a setup that works for you.
Larry
" is to use a fixed voltage tap on the Type "T" that will allow you run the set at a reasonable speed in the upper end of the 81 rheostat's range."
That is what I was thinking. Per my original post, the transformer has those values on it. So which combo would be a good starting point?
"Clean the track also, of any dirt and/or rust spots, including the steel pins holding the track together."
I did that. First, I connected everything on a small oval to make sure everything still worked. I have plenty of grease. oil, conductive lube, etc for trains and slot cars. I just don't have much experience breaking down and assembling train engines, even though I have owned and operated them casually all my life.
Thanks.
One trick to fix part of this issue is to use a fixed voltage tap on the Type "T" that will allow you run the set at a reasonable speed in the upper end of the 81 rheostat's range. This will reduce the total resistance in the circuit and result in more uniform operation around the loop.
To start with, the locomotive would need a thorough cleaning and lubrication of the wheels and bearings, pickup rollers, and motor. Clean the track also, of any dirt and/or rust spots, including the steel pins holding the track together. Clean and lubricate the rolling stock also. These are needed to do, especially for trains that have been in extended storage.
You can use multiple connections to the track to help distribute power evenly.
A modern transformer would work with your trains, but not too small of a unit. A KW would do the job with power to spare.
Hello,
Need some help.
I have my Dad's standard gauge train. It's in pretty much perfect condition, considering it's age and the fact that Dad and the family actually played with their trains. It has not been run in a while, although I do remember the last time it was set up.
I have plenty of track, and made a small oval for test purposes. Here is where I need some info.
It comes with a Lionel Multivolt Transformer, Type T. I also have No. 81 controlling rheostat. Fortunately, the box for the rheostat has a diagram on the back for connecting everything.
Per this connection, I can get a reasonable amount of speed on straight section, but train slows down and crawls around the curve. Probably the force of the wheel against the outside rail of the track. I was wondering if another connection would give me a little more power without damaging anything.
I don't have an instruction manual. I'd like any info you can give me regarding operation of said equipment. Any warnings, or tips.
I did a search for the transformer, and found one easily enough. Good photo, the letters on the top of mine are pretty much worn off. The plate on the side with all the voltage combinations is in good shape and readable.
I believe I could probably use a modern O gauge Lionel transformer, correct?
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