For years, I promised myself (and my wife) that I would stick w/ German prototype loks and rolling stock. I always liked the Era 2 & 3 models best as seen in the analog 30xx, 31xx and 33xx series which were readily available on eBay. I picked and chose carefully and accumulated a decent roster of loks and rolling stock. But I always liked the Swiss electric loks and passenger
coaches. So, I was high bidder on a pristine 3014 in original box. After a smooth trial run, I was all ready to open it up and check out the internals and lube status. Fortunately, it came w/ a complete owner's brochure which advised, among other steps to "remove all lamp holders and bulbs"-- that's 3 on each end. And the 3 on the roof look like they have never seen a screwdriver.
Actually all the screw heads on this little gem are unmarked... the silver paint on the roof is unmarked, and I would like to keep it that way for as long as possible.
Does anyone know why the roof headlamps need to be taken off prior to disassembly?
Does anyone know a easier way to lube the commutator shaft and internal gears and gear shafts on this model?

Thanks,
Chas

All the above is correct but I've just open one that was handy and I could put it back still without removing top lamps however there is potential for trouble on some locos. A suggestion when you must open pristine locos. Fold either some small piece of paper or cotton (old t-shirt) on the tip of the screwdriver and still be very careful plus do not use a driver that is smaller than the head of the screw, ideally needs to fit perfectly in the slot not loose, tight but not overly as it may not go all the way in and can slip.

The RET800/3014 already had Swiss lighting. It was designed to have 3 white in front and one white at the rear. When reversing, there was a neutral position (all lights on) between forward and reversing position, which could be used when the locomotive was not moving, e.g. in a Station.

When working on my 3014, I have not needed to remove the top light. All that was required as to remove the screws on the lok faces so that the bulbs would be a little protruding and to remove the snow plough at the bottom, without which, the shell can not be removed. The little screws on the snow plough are very small and can easily be misplaced. I usually place them all in a little tray so that they are not rolling around on the workbench.

Regards

Mike C

Thanks to all who replied to my posting-- you guys provided me w/ a lot of good information and tips.
I very carefully loosened the tiny screws that hold the top housing for the top lights, but I didn't remove the housing or lights---I just loosened the screws about 1/2 turn to determine how tight they were. They were pretty snug, but not what I would call tight --they should come out easily if I decide to remove them prior to removing the casing. I used the largest blade screwdriver in the little Marklin tool kit, and it filled the slot on that tiny screw completely.
Thanks,
Chas