Looking for information on the type or grade of oil that is used in the axel boxes of heavy locomotives? One of the job's coming up will be to free up the axel box doors remove some unwanted debris(gravel etc) and reoil them with a correct grade of oil.

PB&J 460 by Lubrication Specialties.

http://www.steamenginelube.com/engineoil.htm

Thanks for the link! However we are not a Live steam operation. Just a static exhibit but I am looking at all areas that should be protected for the longterm. The axle boxes havent felt oil in many years. Some of them are half filled with gravel from the little hands over the years. Another job would be to somehow lock these access points after cleaning and lubrication is done.

To remove the dry debris, a good strong wet-vacuum with a foam washable prefilter installed. Next, flush and wash with # 2 fuel oil for the clean-up.
The " proper " lubricant will not be as good as a strongly filming and protective lube. My choice is Lubriplate Chain and Cable Fluid.
It goes on thin and penetrates. The solvents then evaporate and this leaves a grease film that really coats and protects.