Cleaning The Wheels, Tires, and Track
Periodically check the locomotive wheels and pickups for dirt and buildup, which can
cause poor electrical contact and traction and prematurely wear out the neoprene
traction tires. Wheels and tires can be cleaned using denatured (not rubbing) alcohol
applied with a cotton swab.
To clean the track, use RailKing® Track
Cleaning Fluid or denatured (not rubbing)
alcohol and a clean rag. Unplug the transformer
and wipe the rails of the track, turning the rag
frequently to ensure that you are using clean
cloth on the rails. Thereafter, keep an eye on
the track and clean it when it gets dirty to ensure
good electrical contact and to lengthen the life
of the tires.
Track Cleaning
Block (40-1099)
Maintenance Kit (30-50051)
Traction Tire Replacement Instructions
Your locomotive is equipped with two neoprene rubber traction tires on each powered
truck block. While these tires are extremely durable, they may occasionally need
replacement.
First, remove the trucks from the chassis by unscrewing the body mounting screws as
noted in Figure 8. Next, remove the trucks from the chassis by unscrewing the truck
mounting screw also noted in Figure 8. Finally, turn the removed truck over and locate
and remove the truckside screws to gain access to the drive wheel traction tires behind
the trucksides.
Once the truck sides have been removed:
1. Make sure the old tire has been completely removed from the groove in the drive
wheel, using a razor blade or small flathead screwdriver to pry away any remains.
Figure 8: Grease Points
Grease Idler Gears (G)
™
RailKing® ES44AC Diesel Ready-To-Run Set w/Proto-Sound® 3.0
41
