Holy Quality Control Issues, Batman!

Doesn't the track gang own a file?

I’ve read about this frequently on this forum, including the solution: to file the point. Nothing new here.

Thanks. This is the first manual switch I've installed. I am familiar with the need to bend the tip of the point rail to lay hard against the running rail with Fastrack O72 Remote switches so it's a familiar issue. 

Thanks for posting this.  I have been planning to pick up a pair of FT switches for our Christmas tree layout.  Now, I'll save the headaches and spend the money on something useful.

Be careful about trying to bend the point rail - being cast they are fragile - don't ask me how I know.  

palallin posted:

Thanks for posting this.  I have been planning to pick up a pair of FT switches for our Christmas tree layout.  Now, I'll save the headaches and spend the money on something useful.

There are thousands of FT Switches in use today. I wouldn’t let a single post change my plan. 

Richie C. posted:

Be careful about trying to bend the point rail - being cast they are fragile - don't ask me how I know.  

Yes, it must be very carefully done but luckily it only takes a slight bend, at least on the O72 switches. Same thing with Fastrack track pins. They are cast and will break if mistreated. I bend all center rail pins to ensure a good friction fir for electrical conductivity but likewise am very careful.

One bends the center rail track pins in the direction of the screwdriver tip in this pick:

I also lightly crimp the outer rail ends to similarly ensure good electrical connection:

And I might as well bring up Gunrunnerjohn's suggestion to solder all jumper bars in Fastrack switches for best electrical reliability:

Those bent-over tabs don't always make good connection.