Storing a 5in gauge locomotive.

[Thomas ClarkeParticipant @thomasclarke78224]

I have a 5in gauge tender locomotive that resides in the garage which I will be removing the boiler from sometime in the New Year. If the locomotive is to stand still for a long time do I need to do anything to it to prevent it siezing up and rusting in places. Would it be a good idea to give all the moving parts a spray of lubricant and move the pistons every now and then.

Thomas

[noel shelleyParticipant @noelshelley55608]

IF the garage is dry then it’s fine but if damp then a spray of light oil will keep the rust at bay, Duckhams duck oil will work. If you don’t mind the smell diesel will do. You can always wipe off the oil, rust takes more effort. Noel.

[Nigel Graham 2Participant @nigelgraham2]

“Duck Oil” or equivalent preserving-fluids are fine.

Don’t use WD-40 as that is a water-dispersant (the clue is in the initials!) that also dissolves oil, and its protection is limited. It’s mainly white spirit.

It is a good idea to lubricate it and move it about a bit every now and then, especially so if the cylinders, pistons or rings are cast-iron. In that case, a liberal oiling with thin lubricating-oil, and that moving the loco back and forth, is the best protection for those parts.

[BazyleParticipant @bazyle]

Since you are removing the boiler connect an air line at the regulator output and run it on air with the drain cocks open for long enough to dry the cylinders out. Then inject some oil and run it some more. Also try and dry the axle and hand pumps as you cannot inject them with oil.

[Author]

Posts