I may be buying a used Atlas N Scale SD-50 locomotive soon. What should I be looking for? Noise, lights, year? Should I oil the gears?
Eric
Atlas mechanisms are generally very good. One thing to look for would be whether it’s equipped with a newer “slow speed” motor. These run at more prototypical speed and have better control in the lower range than their older motors. If you check the road name and number, you might be able to find out what release the engine is from.
If not, look under the hood. The slow speed motors have grey plastic assemblies, the older motor is black. Either way it’s a going to be a good runner.
Being as its used, you might want to take it apart and clean everything. If it’s been well used, there might be an accumulation of road gook in the axle points and worm gears. If it’s been sitting on a shelf, the old lubricant might be gummed up. Either way, a good cleaning will help ensure that it runs well.
Lee
You may want to look at the wheels too. If they look badly worn, the bronze electrical pickups in the power trucks may be worn out as well (if that model has them). If that is the case, I wouldn’t pay top dollar. You will have to (or should) replace the wheels and wipers for reliable operation.
That’s all good advise. I buy used Atlas engines including a SD50 as well from N Scale Supply from time to time. You can find good buys & they test the engines too. Just last week I recieved a mint condition GP38 in C&O scheme that is now my favorite on my layout. Good luck !