FasTrack Manual Switches - Non-Derailing, Spring switch, etc.

The spring is supposed to be an overrun spring, taking the throws(switch stand) with the points, to the last position and locking the points rather positively. I am surprised that none of your switches do this, as all of mine do. Can you post pics or video of what is happening?

A few pictures attached.  While the points will stay closed under traffic when manually thrown, this is what happens when equipment goes through the switch in the converging direction with the points lined for the opposite route.

I have also attached a picture of the spring, which seams rather anemic... 

I stretched out the string a bit to provide more tension...

All that did was cause a light car's trucks (PW SP Caboose) to lift when passing through the points lined in the wrong direction. 

This issue is common to the 5 switches I picked up, from two different sources.  inspecting the design of the linkage, it seems that the geometry of the spring linkage has a "neutral" spot at the center of the throw.

Jim Harrington posted:

... inspecting the design of the linkage, it seems that the geometry of the spring linkage has a "neutral" spot at the center of the throw.

 

Maybe, but all of mine lock in the closed positions at each end of the throw, there should be no reason for them to come off of the closed position.

If you think a new spring would help they are available. 610-2017-050

I realize this topic is over 2 years old, but Jim Harrington, did you ever get a fix for this problem? I expanded my layout to allow for passing trains and meeting trains in the opposite direction and one of my 0-36 Right Hand Manuel switches is doing the same as yours. It doesn't derail everytime in facing point movements but probably higher than 50% of the time. Many times it is not the Locomotives that derail, but a one of the first few cars. 

I have the same problem with my O31 manual switches. Where is this spring located? Do I have to take the switches apart to find it? Is there an instruction manual for the manual switches? There are manuals for the remote/command switches.

Thanks,

Bill

@WILLIAM STILLMAN 011917 posted:

I have the same problem with my O31 manual switches. Where is this spring located? Do I have to take the switches apart to find it? Is there an instruction manual for the manual switches? There are manuals for the remote/command switches.

Thanks,

Bill

The spring is located inside.  The bottom cover plate needs to be removed to access the spring.  A FasTrack Manual Switch - Owners Manual is attached.

Without taking one apart again, this is the only picture I have of the inside of one of mine at present.  The spring is visible at the bottom of this picture.

As to solving the problem, I suggest ensuring that the switch lies very flat with no bending or twisting.  Internally, make sure that there are no over tightened screws, and that nothing is binding and can move freely.  Sometimes there is unnecessary plastic flash left over from the extrusion (manufacturing) process that can inhibit movement. This flash can be shaved off with a hobby knife.  Test with the cover off until suitable performance is achieved.