FASTRACK O-72 SWITCH TRACKS

Might be a issue inside the switch with the adjustment of the end position microswitches?

cjack posted:

Might be a issue inside the switch with the adjustment of the end position microswitches?

I will pull it apart and let you know thanks Nick

Any time I have had trouble with the controller lights it has been a connection with the yellow wire. Do you get the same result running the switch manually?

John H posted:

Any time I have had trouble with the controller lights it has been a connection with the yellow wire. Do you get the same result running the switch manually?

Not sure John I will check when I go down to the train room latter thanks Nick

John H posted:

Any time I have had trouble with the controller lights it has been a connection with the yellow wire. Do you get the same result running the switch manually?

I second that, it has always been the wiring when I encountered that.  Check inside controller, it has screw terminals also for the wires like the switch does.

He already tried another controller, so I would check the switch or extension, if there is one.

And he does have the red LEDs which have to do with the wiring, yellow wire, etc.

I just wanted you guys to see what I "think" the problem is (was). First, I will say,I always bench test these turnouts before I install them. I apply power with clip leads and operate it 12-15 times to make sure it works. However, because of my issue at hand, I realized that I was never paying much attention to the controller itself. So I removed the turnout. Again, all connections on the turnout and the controller-perfect. So I removed the back of the turnout and here is a pic of what I found. I cannot figure out what or where the red wire connects.It was wrapped around components and pinched.The end is cut clean.  It comes from a small PCB mounted sideways. I assume its for the command control function because I compared it to another standard remote turnout I have on hand and it did not have this board. Its brand new.My LHS is getting it back tomorrow. I know they will be glad to replace it.No hard feelings Lionel....it happens. First defective one in 36 turnouts -not so bad. Thanks guys. Nick

I believe that is the antenna for the command function using the Legacy System to remotely operate the switch.   I upgraded several of my Non-Command switches using the ERR Switch Commander, (no longer available) and the board that the wire you are showing is connected to looks very similar.  Please correct me if I'm mistaken.

Chief Bob (Retired)

Puffer is correct - that's the command board and the antenna wire.

What you need to check is the DC output of the yellow wire. It should read +5 volts and -5 volts DC. The polarity changes to light the LED of the appropriate color in the manual controller.

That would identify the issue in the switch or the controller. Both voltages on the yellow wire, switch is ok, controller has a problem. Only one voltage, switch has problem.

Anyway, pack it up and take it back if the dealer will exchange it. Everything should work out of the box.