K-Line Super-Snap Switch Problems

How old are the switches? What radius are they?

Knowing which switches they are might help a little, O31, O42 or O72 although I have heard of the first issue on all of them?

I have the O72 versions and certain engines have an issue with the leading pick up roller either falling into the gap between the end of the "frog" and the center rail on the diverging route or making contact with two rails as it passes through the switch.

For the first issue I created an "extension" of the "frog" either by draping a piece of formed tubular track over it thereby closing the gap (be careful as too close causes the roller to touch two rail causing another problem) or soldering a piece of brass rail, HO rail or some other piece of metal to create the same extension.

And then there are some engines, usually my scale steam engines, where a momentary short or spark occurs as it passes through the diverging route at very slow speeds. Again it's the leading roller touching both rails. I either use a piece of electrical or clear tape on the side of one rail where the roller touches and that solves the problem.

The derailing issue I do not have, even with my post war FM units. They were made for O31 curves so it's not the radius. Do the trucks swing freely?

Mike

Mike & BlueComet ---

Thanks to both of you for the replies.

I have both O72 and O31 turnouts, but the problems have occurred only on two O31 left hand switches.

Thanks for the tape tip, Mike, I will try it.  As to the bouncing over the frog, I will give my Dremel tool a try.

Bill

Mike,

You were right about the loco.  The rear truck does not swing freely.  That, I think, will be a simple fix.  Thanks again!

BG TCA#92-36326