Transformer for this old Lionel engine?
I didn’t end up getting a chance to try the Z750 (will be doing that tomorrow), but I did get to run the old engine on my nephews’ Lionel set they got last year. They got a kick out how old it looked, inside and out. I don’t know if they had a CW50, CW80, etc transformer, but it sure did seem to take a lot of the throttle throw to move it. Is that normal for the old engines (higher draw), or is there a minimum power transformer that is needed to run the old engine around a basic oval?
The postwar style locos have a 3 pole open frame motor (or two) and they do use more power than the modern can motor locos.
Best lube?
Another thing that didn’t help was I didn’t really lube up the old engine before running it, but we did not run it very long...just a test. The general info out there seems to be use lightweight household oil on the lube points, is this like 3-n-1? Is there a common standard, or is this like asking which train brand you prefer?
3 in 1 is a bit heavy. Try Labelle which is available at most hobby shops.
How about using a lightweight grease (e.g. lubriplate, or similar) that could be substituted to suspend and stay longer?
There are some places where you need grease and some that need oil. Look at the Lionel.com website for a F-3 diesel instruction PDF or find that book on O gauge trains. Check here at the OGR store for Backshop DVD's and look for one that has maintenance tips.
I’ll be researching and reading more on how to grease the engines themselves.
Good deals at shows?
There often are, but if you don't have knowledge about what you are looking for then you should be careful. A price guide such as the one by TM books can give you values but you will need to be able to gauge condition.
Go to the train show, you'll have a good time checking everthing out, and if your wallet is too heavy it will take care of that too!
