O22 switch question...

[silentman]

I will try to make this brief. I have three O22 switches (new), one and three throw perfect and number two in the middle doesnt quite make it to the curve part all the way. I'm using a postwar ZW and using the fixed voltage plugs. I wired them together with a wire nut than to post C to control the voltage. I set the voltage at 12 no more than 14 and like I said the middle one which is connected to the 3rd, not as crisp, sluggish to the curve....snaps back straight ok. Any thoughts? Should I not of wired them together? Run the voltage plugs independently to a terminal strip?

[gunrunnerjohn]

Normally when you wire multiple switches together, having a bit more voltage helps.  However, since two of the three work fine, I'd be checking the contacts in the switch with the problem.  I have a contact forming tool I use to adjust the tension of those contacts, and also clean the surface of the contact area.  Make sure the contacts are not swiveling on the rivet, I've had to put a drop of glue on some 022's to keep the contacts properly aligned.  This normally happens when someone has taken pliers to them and mis-formed the contact material.

[iakobos]

If you are concerned about the voltage I would run a temporary wire to it from the transformer and see if it makes a difference. 

Are you using the non-derailing feature?  If so, you can eliminate the toggle switch as a problem by taking a short piece of wire and jumping the outside rails together (the way the train wheels do) and see if it switches back and forth properly.

[srguy]

I'd also check and lubricate all the movig parts .... sometimes things get hung up. Try a little more power as well.

[balidas]

Here's an excellent thread on troubleshooting your switches.

http://cs.trains.com/TRCCS/forums/t/164691.aspx?PageIndex=1

[silentman]

Thanks very much for the info, I really appreciate it. As far as lubricating the switch, what kind of lubricant do you guys recommend?

[gunrunnerjohn]

I use a light gun oil for lubing.  Note, do NOT lube the plunger in the switch motor, leave that dry!  Use the oil sparingly, a little goes a long way.  You should not feel any binding as you rotate the lantern to move the switch motor, it should be very free.