Cleaning a Postwar

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

I found that my later model 2026 was in dire need of a really good cleaning. As I mentioned in my other 2026 post, it was purchased at a show, and apparently the fellows method of “light refurbishing” was to soak it with WD-40. So I’ve taken it appart. It needs the smoke unit fixed. Think I’ll put in the fluid type resister and wick. But oh man! It is filthy! Lots of dirt. So I’ll be cleaning it this weekend. Bought some Labelle’s oil and grease for the re assembly. Also found some info on the web about grease and oil points. It came appart in 5 minutes. Very easy. One problem/question. Of the three drivers, one wheel set slid rite apart. The other two don’t want to come apart. I don’t have a small wheel puller, and I’m afraid to pry at them. What is the stardard way of seperating these wheel sets for cleaning?

Thanks,

Bobby

2

Unfortunately, the standard way is with a wheel puller. You might be able to do something like pry a wheel with a screwdriver between the hub and the motor frame while tapping on the axle with a punch.

But I would discourage you from trying to take the wheels off at all unless you really need to fix something. It can be pretty tricky to get them back at the correct angles; and the slightest error can cause binding of the side rods. I would put back the one you took off. When you discover the correct position, upset the splined end of the axle just a little, perhaps by squeezing it slightly with diagonal cutters, then replace the wheel. With luck, it will hold.