Is there a process for easing a new N Scale engine into service that will prolong its life?
I don’t know what is “proper,” but I always break my N scale locos in by putting them on a continuous loop and letting them run at a scale speed of about 45 mph for 2 or 3 hours. This allows all of the moving parts to seat and allows me to test the performance of the loco without putting undue stress on the motor by running too fast or building up extra heat by running too slow.
Ron
Can’t speak to all manufacturer’s products, but Bachmann includes the following advice with their N scale Spectrum 2-8-0:
“Like any fine piece of machinery, your precision engineered Bachmann trains will work best after a few hours of actual running time. Do not run at full speed. Frequent starts and stops and running at various speeds will assure you many years of trouble free running.”
Sounds like what they used to tell you about breaking in a car.
Regards
Ed