Braking in Loco's and running trains!

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Ok so I have looked over my “To Do List” and I should be able to run a train after I buy a decoder and wire it up. I also need to finsh up my power supply platform under my table and hook up my DCC unit.

I just have a couple of questions first.

  1. What is the best way to brake in a loco? I have read all kinds of things and I am not sure what needs to be done.
  2. Does the axles need to be oiled first?
  3. Do I pull cars on the first run or just the loco?
  4. Is there a brake in speed?
  5. How long do I need to run it with or with out cars to be broken in?

Thanks
Baker

2

My 4 step break-in procedure.

#1 - Lube axles, gears, bearings

#2 - Run loco only forward 50% throttle for 30 minutes, repeat for reverse

#3 - Run loco with 10 car load for 15 minutes

#4 - tear down, clean, inspect, re-assemble, lube