Maintaining Your Lionel Trains

While we will explain some of the chemicals and solvents that we use, we caution you that should you choose to use them, please read the labels carefully, understand the characteristics of the chemicals you are using and use them carefully. Chemicals and solvents of any kind should only be used in well ventilated areas. Any use by you of our techniques or the chemicals and solvents that are described herein is at your own risk!

Let's take a look at some of the basics cleaning supplies:

1. Double headed cotton tipped swabs for cleaning. These are available in packets as noted in the picture below and are a bit stiffer than the customary Q-Tip.

2. Large and small solder paste brushes for heavy cleaning. They are commonly available at any large hardware store.

3. Large square toothpicks. The type we use are referred to as "cocktail toothpicks". The are fairly large with a point only on one end. They are sturdy and less apt to break like the more common household toothpick.

4. 3M Imperial 800 or 1000 grit wet or dry paper. You'll have a better understanding why we use this particular paper as we delve deeper into the cleaning process. Do not use sandpaper!

5. Mineral Spirits - This is available in pint cans at any good hardware store. Mineral Spirits will not attack the lacquer coating on the armature or field windings during a short cleaning period. A small plastic bowl with a tight fitting lid would be helpful!