Lionel 022 Switch problem

[RRaddict]

I have about 6 Lionel 022 switches and when I tested them they all worked flawlessly but as soon as I put them on a layout the didn't function properly. They flinched like they wanted to move but won't move.  How is this possible?

[lionelsoni]

Did you install insulating pins in the proper rails?

[srguy]

Yes, check the insulating pins .... also, are you using track power or the constant voltage power?

[RRaddict]

I am really new to this hobby again.  I haven't used these switches since 1980 but I did restore them to operating condition.  I forgot about the insulating pins, these are nylon pins if I am correct?  Is there a way to hook up auxilary power instead of using track power?

[srguy]

Try this

http://www.lionel.com/media/servicedocuments/72-4062-250.pdf

[Anonymous]

Hi, RRAddict,  

Remember, the insulating pins go in the two inner rails, the ones that 'V' together at the frog.

If you are using a transformer with an more than one rheostat like a ZW, just run wire from the un-used 'A' post rheostat to the constant voltage plug on each switch.  Be sure that the bulbs in the lanterns will handle the voltage from the full open rheostat or they will burn out right after they melt the lantern.  The ZW puts out 20+ Volts.

If you must use a second transformer, run wires from the second rheostat's 'A' post to the constant voltage plugs.  It is good practice to connect the common posts on each transformer with a jumper.  Be sure the transformers have the same polarity by connecting the jumper to one transformer's 'U' post and touching the 'U' post on the other before you turn on the power.  If there is a spark, the polarity is wrong and you must turn over the wall plug on one transformer.  If they have polarized plugs, you are ok.  The switch will ground to the outside rail as always.

[RRaddict]

That's great thanks to all for the help.  Everything is clear now.

[lionelsoni]

The control rails on an 022 turnout are the straight outside rail that goes to the frog and the curved outside rail that does not go to the frog.

Postwar and modern transformers do not have rheostats.  They are variable transformers.  Copperkettle is referring to one of the variable outputs when he writes "rheostat".

If you connect transformers together, connect them through their common terminals.  For transformers with multiple variable outputs (like the ZW), this is the U terminal.  But, for postwar transformers with only one variable output, it is not.

If you are using a second transformer only for powering your 022 turnouts or accessories, you do not have to get it into phase with the track transformer.  The instructions above for doing that don't make sense to me anyway.

[servoguy]

copperkettle,

The insulating pins do NOT go into the two inner rails that form a V with the frog.  Check srguy's post.  There are drawings at the link which clearly show the location of the insulating pins.