Model railways are more than just a hobby—they’re a blend of artistry, engineering, and nostalgia. Whether you’re a seasoned modeller or just starting out, keeping your locomotives running smoothly is key to an enjoyable and realistic railway experience. Among the most vital, yet often underestimated, aspects of maintenance is cleaning your loco’s wheels.

Over time, dirt, dust, oil, and even microscopic metal particles from the rails can build up on wheel treads and pickups. This grime can severely affect performance, leading to jerky movement, stalled starts, flickering lights, or even damage to motors and decoders. The good news? With a few simple tools and the right technique, wheel cleaning can be a quick and satisfying part of your routine that makes a big difference.

This guide offers a step-by-step, easy-to-follow method for cleaning locomotive wheels safely and effectively. It also highlights common risks, how to avoid them, and tips for maintaining a reliable model railway fleet.

Tools and Materials You Will Need:

• Isopropyl alcohol (preferably 90% or higher)
• Cotton buds (Q-tips) or lint-free cloths
• Toothpicks or small brushes (for compact areas)
• Foam cradle or folded towel (to rest the loco safely)
• Tweezers (optional, for precision cleaning)
• Magnifying glass (optional, for visual inspection)
• Power pack/controller or rolling road (optional for powered cleaning)

Step-by-Step Cleaning Procedure:

1. Power Down and Prepare the Workspace

• Unplug the loco from any track or power source.
• Clear a clean, well-lit workspace.
• Lay down a foam cradle or towel to support the loco and protect delicate details.

2. Inspect the Wheels

• Use a magnifying glass to check for dirt, oil, or oxidation.
• Look for areas around the wheel tread and flange where gunk tends to build up.

3. Manual Wheel Cleaning (Preferred Method)

• Dip a cotton bud into isopropyl alcohol.
• Gently rotate each wheel by hand while rubbing the wheel tread with the soaked cotton bud.
• Replace the bud as it becomes dirty to avoid spreading grime.

Tip: Focus on applying light pressure. Let the alcohol break down the dirt rather than using force.

4. Optional: Powered Cleaning

If you’re comfortable and have the necessary tools:

• Set the loco on a rolling road or upside down in the cradle.
• Connect the power pack to the motor pickups.
• Run the loco slowly and carefully hold an alcohol-dampened cloth or bud against the spinning wheels.

Important: Keep voltage low and avoid prolonged spinning to prevent motor damage.

5. Clean Pickup Areas and Back of Wheels

• Use a toothpick or brush to dislodge dirt from around axle ends, pickup contacts, and wheel backs.
• Gently wipe these areas with an alcohol-moistened cloth.

6. Final Drying and Inspection

• Use a clean, dry cotton bud to wipe down each wheel after cleaning.
• Check that all residue is gone and no fibers are left behind.

Risks and How to Avoid Them

Potential Risk	What Can Happen	How to Prevent It
Wheel plating damage	Abrasives can remove the nickel or blackened finish	Never use sandpaper or track rubbers on wheels
Breaking detail parts	Mishandling can snap off couplings, pipes, or other small pieces	Always rest loco on soft surfaces and handle by the main body
Short circuits	Conductive tools touching powered wheels can cause shorts	Use non-conductive cleaning tools and disconnect power
Motor strain or overheating	Running wheels too fast during powered cleaning can burn out motors	Use low voltage, short bursts; never leave wheels spinning freely
Residue attraction	Oily cleaners leave residue that collects more dust	Use only pure isopropyl alcohol, and always dry thoroughly

Cleaning Frequency Guide

• Frequent runners or dusty environments: Clean every 2–3 weeks
• Occasional use or clean layouts: Clean every 2–3 months
• Signs it’s time to clean:
  • Jerky or stalled running
  • Flickering lights or sound
  • Poor slow-speed performance

Bonus Tips:

• Label a small container for used cotton buds to avoid reusing dirty ones.
• Keep a log of maintenance dates to track cleaning and performance issues.
• Clean your track at the same time for best results.
• For DCC locos, be extra careful around decoder wiring and components.

Suggested Maintenance Schedule

Task	Frequency
Wheel cleaning	Every 10–20 hours of use
Track cleaning	Monthly or as needed
Loco lubrication	Every 30–40 hours of use
Visual inspection	Every running session

With regular care and the right technique, your locomotives will perform reliably and look great for years to come. Happy modelling!

Understanding DCC and Analogue:

Before delving into the compatibility of DCC model trains with analogue systems, let’s briefly explore the fundamental differences between these two control methods.

Digital Command Control (DCC):

• DCC is a modern control system allowing individual control of multiple trains on the same track.
• Each locomotive is equipped with a DCC decoder, enabling precise control of speed, direction, lights, and other functions.
• DCC systems offer more realistic operations and can support advanced features like sound and automation.

Analogue Control:

• Analogue control, also known as direct current (DC) control, is the traditional method where the power supplied to the track determines the speed and direction of the trains.
• Unlike DCC, analogue control typically limits control to one train per track.
• Analogue systems are more straightforward and may be more accessible for beginners.

Compatibility of DCC Model Trains with Analogue Systems:

The beauty of DCC model trains lies in their ability to operate seamlessly on analogue systems. This compatibility is possible by including a dual-mode decoder in many DCC-equipped locomotives. A dual-mode decoder can switch between DCC and analogue operation, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the benefits of both control methods.

Here’s how you can run DCC model trains on an analogue layout:

Identify Dual-Mode Decoders:

• Check the specifications of your DCC locomotives to ensure they are equipped with dual-mode decoders.

Toggle between DCC and Analogue Modes:

• Most dual-mode decoders have a simple switch or programming option to select between DCC and analogue modes.

Adjusting Speed and Direction:

• In analogue mode, the speed and direction of the trains are controlled using a standard DC power pack, just like any other analogue locomotive.

Benefits of Running DCC Model Trains on Analogue Systems:

Accessibility for Beginners:

• Enthusiasts new to the hobby can start with a basic analogue setup and later transition to DCC without replacing their entire fleet of locomotives.

Compatibility with Existing Layouts:

• Hobbyists with established analogue layouts can integrate DCC locomotives into their existing setups without needing a complete overhaul.

Versatility in Control:

• Running DCC model trains on analogue tracks and provides a versatile and customisable experience, catering to the preferences of individual hobbyists.

In the dynamic world of model railways, the compatibility of DCC model trains with analogue systems opens up new possibilities for enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned hobbyist looking to enhance your layout with DCC features or a beginner exploring the world of model trains, the ability to run DCC locomotives on analogue tracks ensures that the joy of this timeless hobby remains accessible to all.

If you would like to learn more about DCC, we have layouts within the club that are controlled this way. Becoming a member will give you access to other members with experience both in DC and DCC.

If you would like to join or are considering joining, please go here and fill out the enquiry form. Someone will be in touch.

Don’t forget, there is still time to order your limited edition RailEx 2023 wagon from the shop here in fareham-mrc.org.uk. However, stock is limited and they are already selling quickly!

Why not order now for collection at the event? You can purchase your wagon at the same time as your RailEx tickets in advance to ensure that your wagon is reserved.

We have provided the details of this wagon below which is limited to just 140 items! It’s also has local significance as you will see from the description below.

Introducing the meticulously crafted 00 gauge wagon, a faithful tribute to the historic Portsmouth, Gosport, and Cosham coal wagons that played a crucial role in the transportation of coal during a bygone era. This exquisitely detailed model encapsulates the essence of the industrial past while offering enthusiasts a tangible connection to the rich history of railway coal delivery.

Step back in time to an era when steam locomotives ruled the tracks and coal was the lifeblood of industrial progress. The Portsmouth, Gosport, and Cosham coal wagons were emblematic of this era, designed to efficiently transport the vital fuel that powered factories, homes, and the heart of the economy. With a legacy dating back to the 19th century, these wagons were an integral part of the transport infrastructure along the southern coast of England.

Crafted with meticulous attention to historical accuracy, the 00 gauge wagon pays homage to the original design and features that made the Portsmouth, Gosport, and Cosham coal wagons distinctive.

The model’s history is as captivating as its design. The Portsmouth, Gosport, and Cosham coal wagons were instrumental in fueling the region’s growth during the industrial revolution. These workhorses could be seen traversing the tracks, transporting the black gold from the bustling ports to destinations that depended on coal to power their engines and furnaces. The legacy of these wagons is not just in their functionality but in their contribution to shaping the landscape and prosperity of the communities they serve.

Whether you’re a dedicated railway enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the nostalgia of yesteryears, the 00 gauge wagon inspired by the Portsmouth, Gosport, and Cosham coal wagons is a must-have addition to your collection

After a long two year break, RailEx Fareham is back. Starting on 1st October 2022 to 2nd October 2022. The return of Fareham RailEx as one of Hampshire’s Largest Railway Exhibitions promises to be better than ever before.

Taking place at the newly Refurbished Fareham Leisure Centre, it promises to be an amazing event for both young and old fans of model railways.

Pre Event Tickets will be available shortly direct from this website, which will allow you to fast track in to the event without too many ques. So make sure that you have purchased your ticket in advance.

You can do this from the Web Shop Here

The Trustees, Committee and Members of the Fareham and District Model Railway Club Wish you a very Happy New Year. Let’s hope we can all make a positive return to the hobby we love as soon as possible this year, but in the meantime stay safe.

Keep returning to this site to see and hear of the club’s news, experiences and developments throughout the coming year