fastrack operating track modification?

For a couple of them, I did a little surgery on the shoe and widened it's slot, that helps a bunch.  I'm busy converting the operating cars to TMCC control to avoid having to have any operating tracks.

Oh Boy that sounds very nice in changing them to TMCC, let us know how it goes and a possible write up so we can try it also.

Thank you in advance!

So far I have a Milk Car, the Log Car, the Hot Box Reefer Car and the Barrel Car that all run with TMCC.  I use the ERR Mini Commander ACC for them.  The Milk Car has a special version with a high current triac for the large solenoid.  It's great to be able to trigger them anywhere on the layout.

If you check the ERR pages, they have a number of kits tailored for specific cars, and instructions for each.

...and it's fun to pitch milk cans out as you go around the layout.

I like dumping the logs next to someone, really gets their attention!

John, does Hennings carry the kits or must you get them from ERR?

Henning's is a stocking dealer.  We have a large order in with them right now.  If you want one to start a project, let me know, I have a couple here.

Picked up a Hot Box Reefer at York and only have a Milk Car for any operating Access, right now, so those would be the two I would start with but no hurry, just spent a bunch for the grand kids for Christmas, so I will have to wait til the new year probably.

Thanks, John

I'm guessing they should be available by then.  Boxcar Bill is another guy that usually stocks the stuff, and he may already have them in stock.

UPDATE:

I tried John's recommendation to widen the shoes. I did this on two PW dump cars and had great success. Then I looked at the rest of the dump cars and log cars and discovered that they have a multitude of problems ranging from disconnected wires to worn down copper pickups. I have ordered a lot of replacement shoes and will have another project going forward. BTW. I like projects.

Thanks for the help.

Cheers

Denny

Glad that worked out.  I did notice that the different profile of the Fastrack vs. tubular seemed to make them pickier about making contact...