Fastrack Switch Oscillation Problem

I'd take a look at the internal limit switches, if one doesn't make contact, it would continue to drive into that stop.  They're also the most likely failure item, I've had to adjust them on several switches.

Interesting.  I didn't see a mechanism that would enable limit switch adjustment.  I'll take a closer look.  Thanks for the insights. 

Posted by RICKO 11/21/11

Remove the bottom cover and check the operation of the(black) micro-switches at either end of the switch mechanism's travel.I had the same problem, the switch mechanism was not closing the micro switch completely on one side and the train wheels were activating the non -derail feature, causing sparks because the switch did not "know" the it was already thrown in the correct direction with the micro-switch not being activated.

To test the micro switches, manually throw the switch in either direction with the lantern,at the end of travel in each direction watch the micro-switch and listen for the "click" telling you its closing correctly, if theres no "click" its not correctly completing the circuit.

I fixed this problem by simply adding a small piece of tape to the side of the switch mechanism where it contacts the micro switch, this enabled the switch mechanism to close the micro-switch fully by acting as a bit of a shim. The switch has never been a problem since.

I believe GRJ used JB Weld  He can elaborate on that method.

I used the RICKO method.

Chris

Chris is correct, I used a dab of JB-Weld to build up the arm, there is no adjustment provisions.  I've also run across a bad switch, I took one out of a broken switch for the repair.  I don't know if those switches are available from Lionel, they weren't when I needed one.

Thanks for the information. Very helpful and appreciated.