Is it possible to change a Lionel Fastrack manual switch into a remote controlled one? Is there any way this can be done? Any kit available to accomplish this?
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I’m sure it is but you’re better off just buying a new one. The boards are like $20, the motors are like $3 or $4 and the limit switches and wiring plus time have their costs. Just buy remote switches and sell off the manual ones.
Kenn,
If you are talking about the original FasTrack switches that run from the controller and you want to upgrade them to become like the newer Command Control FasTrack switches, Gun Runner John started a thread a while back on the ERR upgrade for these switches. Unfortunately I sold all my original FT Switches before ERR developed their upgrade technology. Do a search for the thread and contact Guns, I am sure he will help you with what you are looking for.
PCRR/Dave
Anything is possible with a little ingenuity. Here is one member's solution to electrifying a 1022 switch:
Buy the remote switch, you're embarking on a frustrating project. 
Looking at the fast track switch pictures I have seen, in theory you could modify the switch to be actuated via an under table linkage to a switch machine like Tortoise or whatnot. That said, I tend to agree with others, the time you would spend figuring it out, how to modify the switch without damaging it, figuring out the linkage, the cost of the switch machine, it would be a lot easier simply selling the manual switch and buying the remote one, especially if you can find them used. New an O36 manual was running around 43 bucks, automatic was about 12 bucks more at the places that came back in my search.
BIGKID,
If you are just looking for an engineering project and you want something to do, yes they can be upgraded. Guns explained how to due it in one of his prior posts, even giving the parts needed. A he has recommended to just purchase new CC Switches you might think twice before spending time with the upgrade however.
PCRR/Dave
bigkid posted:Looking at the fast track switch pictures I have seen, in theory you could modify the switch to be actuated via an under table linkage to a switch machine like Tortoise or whatnot. That said, I tend to agree with others, the time you would spend figuring it out, how to modify the switch without damaging it, figuring out the linkage, the cost of the switch machine, it would be a lot easier simply selling the manual switch and buying the remote one, especially if you can find them used. New an O36 manual was running around 43 bucks, automatic was about 12 bucks more at the places that came back in my search.
Could you tell me where you're finding a remote switch for $55? They don't make the fastrack remote only switches anymore only the command ones, which to my knowledge go for around $83+ new.
Here are some. And some more.
Davety posted:bigkid posted:Looking at the fast track switch pictures I have seen, in theory you could modify the switch to be actuated via an under table linkage to a switch machine like Tortoise or whatnot. That said, I tend to agree with others, the time you would spend figuring it out, how to modify the switch without damaging it, figuring out the linkage, the cost of the switch machine, it would be a lot easier simply selling the manual switch and buying the remote one, especially if you can find them used. New an O36 manual was running around 43 bucks, automatic was about 12 bucks more at the places that came back in my search.
Could you tell me where you're finding a remote switch for $55? They don't make the fastrack remote only switches anymore only the command ones, which to my knowledge go for around $83+ new.
You are correct, the website where it had the 036 remote for 53 and change was a manual switch, I hadn't clicked into it and looked at the image. Even clicking in the description was for a remote switch (non derail operation) but the image was manual.
BIGKID,
There is a FasTrack Thread stated by Brian in the For Sale Section, I just talked to him a short time ago, about the 072 curves than I am going to purchase. He advised me that the FT switches he is selling are the older manual type FT switches. Give him a call or drop him some e-mail his contact info is in the thread. Brian is selling the switches at reasonable prices.
PCRR/Dave
Pine Creek Railroad posted:BIGKID,
There is a FasTrack Thread stated by Brian in the For Sale Section, I just talked to him a short time ago, about the 072 curves than I am going to purchase. He advised me that the FT switches he is selling are the older manual type FT switches. Give him a call or drop him some e-mail his contact info is in the thread. Brian is selling the switches at reasonable prices.
PCRR/Dave
I wasn't the one looking for the switches was responding to someone else, I don't plan on using fasttrack
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The March/April 2008 edition of TTOS's The Bulletin has an article of mine that shows how to easily do this. Cost is about $14.00.
BOB WALKER posted:The March/April 2008 edition of TTOS's The Bulletin has an article of mine that shows how to easily do this. Cost is about $14.00.
That's great news, Bob, but please tell how to get that TTOS edition to access your article. Thanks!
