Which Wheels and Oils Are the Most Suitable For Model Train Operation?

If you have a choice of buying model trains with plastic wheels or metal wheels, always choose metal wheels. If your trains have plastic wheels you may want to look at replacing them. Metal wheels typically run more smoothly and provide less resistance. They also stay cleaner for longer as does the track they run on.

Plastic Wheels, like you find on toy train sets, are usually injection molded and are mass produced for price, rather than quality or reliability. They are also inclined to leave plastic residue on the track, which needs to be cleaned off regularly. Overall, they can be very troublesome.

The good news is; metal wheels have become less expensive over the past few years. So, if you have plastic wheels, now could be a good time to look for metal replacements.

Another suggestion is not to oil the track if you operate with plastic. Although products like Wahl Hair Clipper Oil are used by many model railroaders; applying oils to plastic is not generally recommended, as the plastic can react with the oil. This could mean more cleaning and damage to the wheels over the longer term.

Oils and lubricants are a useful tool in any model railroader's toolbox. You just need to use oils with caution and moderation, and use the correct ones for the job.

Companies like LaBelle do make plastic compatible oils, but I still prefer to stick with metal wheels as they are far more reliable. Labelle Oil Medium is best for wheel bearings and the armature. The oil is available in small plastic bottles with a needle point applicator for accurate application. The LaBelle Light Oil can be applied to side rods, push rods and train axle bearings.

Using too much lubricant can damage a commutator over time. What happens is; the oil lubricant is vaporized and the heat bakes it on to the surface of the commutator. This then, lowers the overall performance.

A worn commutator usually reveals signs of heat and arcing after long term use.

If your train motor is not working well, it may need higher voltages than would normally be expected, hence the 'arcing.' An under-performing motor will mean more resistance and need higher transformer voltages for train operation.

Wahls Clipper oil is another one used by many in the hobby. It can be applied each month with a cloth for keeping tracks in good condition. Wahls Clipper oil needs to be applied carefully and then thoroughly cleaned off using a dry cloth. If your tracks are really dirty you could remove the worst dirt and grime with lighter fluid and/or Brite Boy. If you keep your tracks clean you will probably experience 'less sparking' from the contact wheels on the track.

In summary; use metal wheels over plastic, and use the correct oils and lubricants carefully and sparingly. This will help your trains last much longer and make for smooth model train operation.