Operating shoes with Fastrack switches

[ChiefEagles]

IF you do have problems, file the shoe edges off at a bevel.

[Jumijo]

My whole layout is FasTrack. The switches are smooth and reliable. The non-derail feature works incredibly well. Non of my rolling stock has the shoes, but I don't think it would be an issue.

Jim

[dwiemer]

Okie,     I have a large number of these turnouts on the way.  I investigated this and several other issues.  While I can't go from personal experience yet, I can give a few thoughts from the shared experience of others.  The older Fastrack turnouts with the metal frogs had some issues with shorting and Lionel suggested putting electrical tape over these.  Lionel has since switched to plastic frogs.  Some folks have had issues with turnouts going into a stutter like action where it was acting as if it were rapidly engaging and disengaging, back and forth.  This, I believe was caused by a voltage and / or incorrect wiring situation.

     The only real problem I have heard regarding the new Fastrack turnouts was one incident in which the person heard a audible rattle inside the turnout.  Upon disassembly, he found a connector floating around and was able to repair it.  That certainly seems to have been an exception.  Otherwise, I have heard lots of great features with this track.  It is reliable, works off of low voltage, so much so that many use track voltage, and it has smooth action. 

     I am anxiously awaiting my order of Fastrack and look forward to being able to post my personal experience.  From all that I have seen and heard, it is well worth it to use this track.  Should you wish, their is a yahoo group for Fastrack and you will find lots of people with real world experience there.

Good Luck,

dennis

[okiechoochoo]

Are there any problems with the postwar Lionel operating car shoes on Fastrack switches.  Do they snag or short out.  Also, how reliable are these new Fastrack switches.  I have heard they are very smooth but LHS says they have had a few that have throw problems in one direction or another.  How about this. are they dependable.