The following
are some TIPS that will help in the operation of all electric trains.
We hope
they help newcomers to the hobby of collecting and operating.
TIP #1 CLEANING TRACK
One of the most important factors which causes
poor operation of electric trains is dirty
track. RFG Track Cleaner is specially formulated
to cut through the type of dirt build up
on track.
DIRECTIONS
Make sure the power to the rails is turned
off.
1. Dampen a soft cloth with #1114 Track Cleaner.
2. Rub the cloth over the tops of the rails. Use firm pressure.
3. Then with the use of a dry cloth wipe the rails.
4. Reapply on any stubborn areas.
5. This should be done every few days if
the trains are in constant use, or before
using after a long period of non-use.
If severe oxidation exits or light rust is present, it may be necessary to use a fine sand paper,
and buff the top and inside surface of the rails. Then follows steps 1 to 4.
NEVER use steel wool. And NEVER use any flammable liquids as a track cleaner.
#1114 Track Cleaner can also be used to clean the metal pick up wheels and pick up shoes.
TIP #2 REVERSE UNITS
RFG 1149 "E" RENEW is a specially
formulated cleaner that not only cleans and
lubricates, but also promotes good electrical
contact.
SUGGESTED USES
AMERICAN FLYER and LIONEL mechanical reverse units.
DIRECTIONS
A few drops of RFG 1149 "E" RENEW should be places on all the contact points
of the moving parts. Such as the pawl, drum axle etc.
Also a few drops should be spread on the reverse unit drum.
It is especially important on AMERICAN FLYER "E" Units which have had
sticking problems, to apply a liberal amount of "E" RENEW to the pivot
point where the pawl is connected to the actuating plate.
Activate the unit manually several times, and apply more "E" RENEW.
TIP #3 CLEANING PLASTIC
All Plastics are prone to oxidation, that's
the white material that can be seen on the
surface.
RFG plastic cleaner gently cleans all plastic's with out scratching.
Leaves a lustrous shine that resists fogging, repels dust and eliminates
static. Protects against smudges, scratching and oxidation.
SUGGESTED USES
Plastic shells, couplers and all other plastic parts on accessories,
transformer cases, etc.
DIRECTIONS
1. Remove surface dust with soft cloth.
2. Shake well. Apply a small amount of cleaner on a clean cloth.
3. Spread evenly over the entire surface to be cleaned.
4. Buff with a clean, soft, lint free cloth.
5. For stubborn cases, such as oxidation, (white surface residue),
rub the cleaner into the surface, then buff.
If severe oxidation exits it may be necessary to use a hair dryer
to soften the oxidation. EXTREME CARE MUST BE TAKEN.
Only heat the plastic until the white oxidation turns clear.
Then wipe it away and treat the item starting with step 2.
TIP #4 LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication can not be stressed enough.
An engine that is not properly lubricated
will draw too many amps and will over heat
the motor and burn it out. Cars wheels that
are not properly lubricated will drag and
overheat the engine motor.
It is very important to use the proper lubricant
with the proper viscosity.
RFG No. 1116 OIL is a high quality general
purpose oil. It can be used on all points
on accessories, that require oil.
RFG No. 1116LT LIGHT OIL is a very low viscosity
oil, for lubricating moving
parts, such as valve gear and car wheels.
RFG No. 1116MD MEDIUM DUTY OIL Best oil to
use on motor bearings.
RFG No. 1117A PEN OILER a new High Tech oil
in a convenient pen oiler. This oil can be
used almost anywhere.
The high viscosity, allows it to coat and
stick to surfaces. Plastic safe.
RFG No. 1116G GEAR OIL is a high viscosity
oil, specifically designed for gears. Will
cling to gear teeth surfaces.
RFG No. 1145 DRY GRAPHITE is a superb lubricant,
and helps reduce friction. Use in areas not
conducive to liquid oils.
No. 1118 Grease is a high quality medium
fiber grease meant for gears
and delicate moving parts.
It only takes a small amount on a regular
basis to achieve excellent results. Grease
and oil should be used every 30 days or after
about 10 running hours.
TIP #5 SMOKE UNITS
Most American Flyer steam type locomotives
are equipped with a smoke and choo choo unit,
so they resemble their prototypes in every
respect. Proper care is essential for continued
long lasting smoke. Using the wrong smoke
fluid can clog the unit. And operating the
unit for long periods without fluid in them
can cause them to burn out. The choo-choo
sound is accomplished by the movement of
a piston in a cylinder, which forces air
through a small hole and against a baffle
plate. The same air then follows through
the smoke chamber and out of the smoke stack.
A heating element, wound around a glass wick
which is saturated with fluid, causes the
smoke, and the passing air pushes it out
the stack in very realistic puffs.
DIRECTIONS
When the smoke in your locomotive diminishes
and a refill is needed, insert the small
funnel into the tube in the smoke stack.
Then open the nozzle on a bottle No. 1115
Smoke Fluid and squeeze the
liquid into the funnel; put it in slowly,
so it has a chance to flow
down into the reservoir and not spill over
the sides.
Do not over fill, use only 8 to 10 drops.
You can attempt to clean out a smoke unit,
by filling it with No. 1115
Smoke Fluid and letting it stand overnight
without use. Then turn the
engine over, placing a cloth under the engine
and allowing the fluid
to drain back out.
TIP #6 GENERAL CLEANING
General cleaning of all types of train equipment
can be done with any mild soap and a few
simple tools. A small brush, clean rags and
a little elbow grease will do the job. The
most important thing is to take care around
lettering and to dry each item thoroughly.
See the RFG Online Catalog
for RFG Repair Instruction Sheets, Cleaners, Lubricants, Supplies and Booklets.
