I have a Fastrack 036 switch that appears to be throwing all the way each way, but the rails are not locking into place, and the locomotive derails. Does this type switch have some type of rail locking mechanism as in the 022 switch? Is there a way to fix this problem?
Thanks in advance.
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yes, find out why it is doing this -
The arm that turns the light could be jamming or dragging.
The motor that moves the segment gear that moves the rails inside could be too tight. Loosening the motor mounting screws an 1/8 to a 1/4 turn could fix it.
There is about 13 really small screws that like to run away when you take them out on the bottom of the switch to remove the cover and inspect the mechanical movement inside
There are two screws to remove the light and check that linkage.
Is this a manual or a remote track switch?
What do you mean by "not locking"?
Is the point rail actually locked but there is a gap between the point and the outside rail because the point rail is incorrectly shaped? This is a common problem with O36 manual switches and requires filing/grinding the outside end of the point to allow it to lay hard against the outer rail.
Does this happen in both positions?
Geysergazer,
It is a remote switch. There is no gap between the point and the outside rail in either direction. However, I can easily move the point with my finger after it's been thrown. It happens in either direction. What does the locking mechanism look like? Or is it the motor just holding it in place? I'm going to try Moonman's suggestion. I'll let you know if it works. Thanks.
If you have another FasTrack switch, remove the back covers and compare the internal setup of them both. You should be able to tell what is wrong with your malfunctioning switch.
Did this problem just begin, and has it worked properly in the past?
Larry
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