Atlas Switch question

[Fred Bear]

I have one Atlas switch that uncouples a Lionel log dump car. Only one switch and only one car. Wonder what gives with that? Thanks, Jake

[Roger Bielen]

Jake, I'm guessing that the car is the version that operates using the pick-up shoe rather than the magnet.  The usual problem is the rivet that is the contact in the shoe is making contact with one of the rails on the switch activating the car.  I have the same problem with Ross switches and my old operating cars.  Atlas has a "ramp" included with their switches that gets inserted into one of the rail angles to lift the shoe to keep it from catching and, I think, making contact.

[Fred Bear]

By gum you're right! There are little do dads in the box for that! thanks much and Happy Easter, Jake

[luther_stanton]

I have had Atlas switches with the ramp installed still cause a single shoe car to operate as it passes through the switch.  I believe the primary purpose of the ramp is to provide a smooth transition so that the shoe does not snag, but since they are made of plastic they provide some insulating value.  However, if the rivet on the shoe comes into contact with the center rail the action of the car will activate.

I actually saw a solution in OGR.  There was an article a few issues back that addressed this very problem.  The single shoe cars are the problem since they use the car frame and trucks for common / return.  If you convert these cars to the two shoe variety, where one shoe is hot and the other common, you will stop dumping you logs, or in my case cattle, over the switch.

The process involves isolating the action of the car (solenoid, etc.) from the car frame and routing that common to a new truck that also has a sliding shoe. This will not affect the action of the car, however you will need to make sure you are using a Remote Control track section which has the two control rails.  In the case of my corral set there was a small track clip supplied which only provided one control rail but had the advantage of being able to be used with any straight section of track.

 Atlas also makes an add on kit to convert any 10" straight to a remote control section.  It is part number ATO6097.

- Luther

[Fred Bear]

I also took that part kit for converting Atlas track straight, and simple bent the little rails, drilled new holes, and made the curved piece work for unloading. It works like a charm! Jake