Hey guys, I just acquired some pre war cars and want to clean them up a bit. I'd like to clean them in mild soap and water with just a soft brush like I've read about online. My question is should I disassemble the cars to clean them? I don't want to break any tabs or anything like that. Or should I just wash them without taking them apart and dry everything (especially the wheels, etc.) immediately after? Thanks for any info.
I would contact the folks at the Train Collectors Association. See what advice they might offer. It is possible that leaving these items essentially as is might be your best option. http://www.traincollectors.org/ Boxcab E50 Former TCA member.
Just what kind of dirt are you trying to clean off? Is it dust or caked on dirt or worse yet mouse urine? Like Boxcab said "leaving them as is" is probably the best option. I would not submerge any pre war trains in water and soap whole. If it is dust, a damp cloth to wipe them with would be best. If there is rust, definitely keep them dry. I've used WD40 on a cloth to remove rust on the axles and such but made sure that the printed car didn't get the oil on it. Greg
