@Mill69 posted:My first set was a 2353 passenger set that had set like new for at least 25 years. The previous owner received them for Christmas in 1954 and had cared for them incredibly well. Even with that, when I acquired them after his passing the worm gears were loaded with frozen grease. In fact the thrust bearing oil in the motors was gummy. I tried CLP, Kroil and neither would clear all the grease and oil out. Finally, I stumbled on to WD-40 contact cleaner and it melted all the old lubricants allowing the motor and drive gears to turn freely. I completed cleaning and performed the lubrication process as cited above and the engine is a pulling machine. Mine pulled 25 early postwar cars with no problem. Anyway make sure its the Contact Cleaner and not the regular WD-40 (never use this on any machine). Also, I always keep plastic shells on a separate table when I work on Motors or Mechanisms.
With old lubricating gunk, it's not unusual to have a hard time even turning the wheels. I use a method that always works. I let the mechanism (not including motor) soak in mineral spirits for several hours - or overnight. The drench it with very hot water for a short time and let dry, then lubricate. After that treatment, I usually find that they will roll a long way with a light push.
