pick up contact

[bob kaplan]

the back of my heisler, shay, and climax pick up wheels often become coated with a black powedery/greasey kind of stuff.  I do avoid over lubing....at least I try....I clean the deposits regularly with Q-tip and cleaner....but I am wondering if the material might be conductive and it should be left alone.  A similar material develops on the treads of the wheels.  That, I also remove.  A good idea or not?   Is it also conductive?....doesn't seem to be.  Oh....yes...I use track power on an indoor layout.

[Loco Bill Canelos]

Hi Bob,

Does you locomotive run badily with the coating?  Better after you clean it??  If better after you clean it the gunk probable not conductive.   If it runs OK without cleaning just keep running it until it starts running poorly, then clean it.

Have fun,

Bill