3-in-1 oil

[RJasonB]

Anyone have experience using 3-in-1 oil as a lubricant for model railroad motive power and rolling stock? One of my tenders has developed a nasty screech. I don't have any lubricant specifically marketed for model rairlroading, but I do have a bottle of 3-in-1 in the garage. The label makes no mention of any harm to plastics or painted finishes. I'd hate to learn this the hard way. Thanks.

Jason in Colorado.

[Larry]

I wouldn't use 3in1 oil unless it was an O scale or G scale engine. I use Mineral Oil on my HO scale. Very sparingly. If you have or had a Baby in the house at one time you probably have some mineral oil. You can also use Graphite Powder.

[Selector]

Do you have any Dextron III Mercon auto transmission fluid? That stuff is excellent as a lube on all sorts of things because it is safe for plastics and paints. I use it exclusively on my trucks and locomotives, and have done so for seven years now.

[Cjcrescent]

Whatever you do, don't use 3 in 1! The base in it will damage plastic.

Selector has it right. I've used ATF on my RR stuff for years. Marvel Mystery Oil is good as well.

[swiggy]

tranny fluid is also a cleaning agent or detergent if you will
i have used 3-1 oil with a toothpick (work great for applying lubricants to small areas) and it seemed to work great i will now switch to transmission fluid