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Hi guys,

I have 2 pairs of Atlas #5 turnouts, a pair of left and right each.  I've recently installed a new atlas switch machine as I've done before.  I've wired it the same exact way as the original switch machine.  Here is the issue.  When I tested by hand pushing a passenger car through the switch, there would be a bright spark and the circuit breaker on my lionel 180 transformer would trip.  I thought maybe it is just the passenger car, so I did it with an engine, and the same exact results.  What do you think could have caused this?

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I have had this issue. Here is something you might try.  Take a razor blade, or very sharp knife and open the gap slightly where I put an arrow in the picture. What seems to be happening is that it is too close to the ground rail, and when the roller goes over the track it causes a short circuit.  See if that works.  (you might also run a car through the switch that doesn't have any rollers, and this should not cause any spark)..then you will have confirmed the issue/solution).  Hope this helps.

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@AMF posted:

I have had this issue. Here is something you might try.  Take a razor blade, or very sharp knife and open the gap slightly where I put an arrow in the picture. What seems to be happening is that it is too close to the ground rail, and when the roller goes over the track it causes a short circuit.  See if that works.  (you might also run a car through the switch that doesn't have any rollers, and this should not cause any spark)..then you will have confirmed the issue/solution).  Hope this helps.

Thank you for your input.  I am going to try that this weekend.  I'll let you know the end result.

Last edited by Aem7s4lyfe
@AMF posted:

I have had this issue. Here is something you might try.  Take a razor blade, or very sharp knife and open the gap slightly where I put an arrow in the picture. What seems to be happening is that it is too close to the ground rail, and when the roller goes over the track it causes a short circuit.  See if that works.  (you might also run a car through the switch that doesn't have any rollers, and this should not cause any spark)..then you will have confirmed the issue/solution).  Hope this helps.

I ran a car with no rollers through the switches and no spark. I believe you are correct.  I'm going to open that gap.

@AMF posted:

I have had this issue. Here is something you might try.  Take a razor blade, or very sharp knife and open the gap slightly where I put an arrow in the picture. What seems to be happening is that it is too close to the ground rail, and when the roller goes over the track it causes a short circuit.  See if that works.  (you might also run a car through the switch that doesn't have any rollers, and this should not cause any spark)..then you will have confirmed the issue/solution).  Hope this helps.

Hello @AMF,  I took a razor blade and opened the gap slightly.  I am still having the same issue.  I am going to post a video of the issue later today when I get off of work.

Hey guys, thank you for your input. I've figured out the issue.  Turns out there was nothing wrong with the switches, it was the wiring of the TIU on my outer loop.  My outer loop was wired incorrectly which was causing my locomotives and passenger cars to cause a short.  I've since correct the wiring and the trains are running smoothly now.

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OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Ste 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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