3) LUBRICATION
Regular lubrication of all working parts is important and should be
carried out before each operating session. There are two types of
lubrication required: The external moving linkages and bearings are
lubricated with a medium oil such as motor engine oil, and the
internal steam mechanisms such as cylinders, pistons and valves
are lubricated with a special steam oil that is mixed with the steam.
Infrequent external lubrication will allow parts to run dry, and over
oiling can form pools around operating parts that attract dirt and
grit. If too thin an oil is used it will evaporate very quickly as the
loco gets hot – leading to dry running. We recommend the use of a
20-50 motor oil for external lubrication.
The slip eccentric valve gear is located between the rear wheels
and the frames and is lubricated by running oil down the back of
the wheels. Internal lubrication is achieved by steam oil that is
mixed with the steam in the displacement lubricator, housed in the
left-hand side of the cab. Remove the knurled cap from the top of
the lubricator. Locate the knurled lubricator drain screw located
under the cab floor. Unscrew this two or three turns, but do not
remove it. Any water in the lubricator will run out through the hole in
the drain screw. When the water has finished draining, tighten the
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