(DIR) Return Create A Forum - Home --------------------------------------------------------- Lionel Trains (HTM) https://lioneltrains.createaforum.com --------------------------------------------------------- ***************************************************** (DIR) Return to: Beginners Q & A ***************************************************** #Post#: 1103-------------------------------------------------- Starting a model train set By: Alfredo Manhaes Date: August 22, 2015, 11:43 pm --------------------------------------------------------- Hi all! I live in Brazil and I am 51 years old. When I was a child I used to play with model trains, and recently I got a lot of Lionel trains, without controller, tracks etc. Please, see pictures in the album Lionel Trains: (HTM) https://goo.gl/photos/bLShsumajLunmnrS6 (HTM) https://goo.gl/photos/bLShsumajLunmnrS6 So, I am thinking about playing again but I need to fix them before and build a model railroad. So, anyone could suggest me the best option to start? Any help will be appreciated. Many thanks! By the way, sorry about my english. Best regards, Alfredo Manhaes. #Post#: 1104-------------------------------------------------- Re: Starting a model train set By: TrainLarry Date: August 23, 2015, 4:55 pm --------------------------------------------------------- Welcome to the forum! You have acquired a nice selection of trains. You need to purchase some "0" gauge track (not 027). A postwar ZW transformer would be recommended to power the trains and accessories you have. You would also need a few Lockons and some hookup wire. For the trains themselves, clean any external dirt and grease with naphtha (lighter fluid). Clean all wheels and pick up rollers with the naphtha also. Oil all loco axle bearings, and the wheel bearings on all rolling stock with a hobby oil. Grease the gears on the locos with a hobby grease. If you buy used track, clean any rust on it with a Scotchbrite pad. Do not use sandpaper, as it will remove the tin coating. Clean off any dirt and residue with naphtha. Pay attention to the connection pins in the track, as they need to be clean and rust free. Once you get your track and transformer assembled and the trains cleaned and lubricated, you can start running them . Any problems can be addressed in the future. Larry *****************************************************