Does a cool or cold basement affect the engines? - Model Railroader Magazine

Not really.Cool weather in fact helps mechanical components keep cool,as long as it is not too cold though.As mentionned previously,lubricating agents tend to be thicker and less lubricating but this under real cold weather,near or below freezing point.However,I'd suggest going easy for the first few minutes so that the motor warms up a little before pushing it to its limit.

On the other hand,as also mentionned,too wide temperature differences can create havoc of your trackwork as expansion is impossible to avoid.Proper gaps between rail sections are a necessity in such case.

The real killer of most mechanical components is humidity as it will induce and increase corrosion.If your humidity level is correct,you shouldn't worry about cool.