Short Circuit (sparks) on 042 Remote Switches (Lionel 6-65167(8))

[kgstones]

I think I've seen this problem addressed before but can't find the specific posts.  My grandsons have set up their winter time layout and are using the power system that came with the Polar Express set they got for Christmas.  They are using a number of Lionel 042 remote switches.  We've always noticed sparks when certain cars go over the switches and thought it was just a normal occurrence but now with the different power source the sparks cause the engines to lose momentary power and it appears it has to do with the transformer's internal short protection system cutting the power off.  This hesitation only occurs when using this new power source.  However, we got down and had a close look as certain cars roll over the switches and found there is a definite temporary short circuit between the inside surface of the car's wheel and the flat center rail of the switch.  After much thought it seems there are various reasons this is happening, weight of car, length of train, etc.  We've also noticed there is some pitting taking place on the rails where this short keep occurring and now want to correct the problem if possible as over time this will probably damage the rails permanently.

On a couple switches we put a small piece of electrical tape on the side of the switch center flat rail section and it has eliminated the problem quite well.  However this might just be a temporary fix and there might be a more permanent solution that we are not aware of.  We've check the spacing between the wheels on the problem cars and it doesn't seem to be that different form other cars that don't have the same problem.  So before we start trying to pull the wheels further apart and making a mess of things we're asking if others have had this same problem and how you resolved it.  We just put the tape on the rails and don't know how long it will last.  We'll have to do it on all the other switches.

Is it worth messing with the problem wheels or is it more of a switch center rail problem.  Can we coat the rail with a paint or other substance that will insulate it more permanently or is the tape the best fix?  We could also coat the inside surface of the problem wheels but that doesn't seem like a viable solution nor like it would last.

I haven't been on this forum for quite some time but have always received great help in the past.  Thank you all for your time and input on this.

Mickey

[ADCX Rob]

Use Plasti-dip or nail polish as discussed HERE.

[kgstones]

Rob, thanks for the help.  That's exactly what I was looking for.  Sounds like it's a wheel problem along with a switch problem and the two don't mix well.  I'll ask the wife if she has some clear nail polish.  No pink on the boys' layout.  Or we'll just go with the electrical tape.

Thanks again,
Mickey