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What does it mean when my model locomotive screeches?

Screeching model railway locomotives are a common problem that most modellers come across at one time or another. If your engine is partial to the odd screech, it will likely be one of two things, but in either case, it rarely means it's the end of the line for your locomotive.
Often the problem can be fixed using a spot of model lubricating oil applied to the various cogs, worm screws and joints inside your model. This is easy to do (once you have battled to remove the bodyshell) and will be even easier if you still have your model's instructions that will identify the exact location oil should be deposited.
The important thing to remember when lubricating your mechanism is to use oil sparingly, keep it out of the motor, and away from any plastics that may be susceptible to damage from the oil. Remember, you can always add more oil, but removing it may require a complete strip-down. 
If it's an older model that's screeching, particularly an old Hornby or Lima model from the '70s or '80s, there may be a more challenging problem to solve. These models can be prone to their pinion cog (gear) coming loose. The pinion cog is the metal cog located on the shaft protruding from the motor, it stands out from the other cogs because they will be plastic. If the pinion cog has become loose, it will spin freely on its shaft and need replacing.
Changing a pinion cog will require a special tool as the new cog will require pressing into position. The tool is aptly called a 'Pinion Removal Tool' and is available from all good model shops. A new pinion cog can be sought from specialist spares stores. A brass replacement is well-advised as the older alloy type is more prone to failure.

A repair is possible if you are comfortable removing the motor from your model, and there are plenty of tutorials on YouTube and in magazines that offer guidance, so don't give up on your little engine just yet, even if it is a bit of a screamer!

Posted in: Model Railway, Fix, restore and customize

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