Servicing LGB locos

Hi. I'm new to G scale, but have experience of GI and 16mm. What oils/greases should I use / not use on LGB locos? Also, with ownership changes, has the spare part situation changed for LGB stck, and who should I approach for spares? Thanks in advance.

One can certainly use the LGB lubricants (quite expensive, though). Whatever you use, make sure it is high quality and plastic compatible. I use LaBelle lubricants.

Spare parts availability is a mixed bag but seems to be improving. During the dark times for LGB, very little was available. Common items such as the plastic Stainz whistle are always available on eBay, although not always at a reasonable price. European shops seem to have better supply of spares. Spares for older LGBs are generally unobtainable.

I can echo Bill's points on lubricants. I did buy a tube of LGB grease 7 years ago and you use so little it lasts a lifetime so the cost is largely irrelevant.

One company that has cornered just about every spare part for current and old LGB models is Modell Land in Germany excellent service, the only drawback being shipping costs. Just look at "Ersatzteile"

Which particular bits are you after? Ebay will always turn up trumps. Do let me know as I have box fulls of bits that have come off my LGB loco's and I'm progressively moving away from LGB stock!

Erring on the safe side, I think I'll use LGB's own grease. What are the typical wear items, apart from the obvious pickups, sliders and motor brushes. I have a Corpet and an O & K 0-4-0.

Lightly grease the wheel bearings and gears. A little bit of grease goes a long way, so don't overdo it. Before you apply new grease, clean off any old grease, especially if it is gummy or hardened or dirty.

A drop or two of oil (not grease) on the motor bearings would be good.

Do not grease the motor brushes or the contact surfaces of the pickups/sliders.