I have a Lionel #445 operating switch tower on my layout which works very well for the first 7-8 passing trains. Over time, however, the operation becomes progressively slower until virtually nothing happens as trains pass, despite constant voltage and train length. Also, there is no "groove" in the side wall from the switchman control line.
Has anyone experienced a similar slowdown in operation over a short period of time? Your solution? (BTW, I plan to make the adjustments suggested by Kent Johnson on page 82 of the July 2012 CTT issue.)
Thanks and Happy New Year,