I have an 022 on the layout that has apparently developed a "dead" spot. I hadn't experienced any problems until recently. When running at slow speeds, various engines will either hesitate as they cross over the track or stall. My Williams FM with the sequenced horn, will loose the horn sound as it passes over the track. The track was restored about 4 montas ago .... any thoughts on what might be hapening??
Take the cover off the track part and check the crimps. When I overhaul these, I solder ALL the crimps. Also pay special attention to the one strip that is soldered to the curved rail for the non-derailing feature, these solder joints break.
I use a 100/140 watt Weller soldering gun to solder the crimps after cleaning them with a Dremel wire wheel. With a true 022 switch, those are Bakelite, and they won't melt with the heat.
After checking further, the problem appears only to be on the straight portion of the track. In fact I ran the train in the other direction and the non derail feature on the straight was slow to activate. Will remove and check out.
i have 022switches too and i have the same problems i fix it by cleaning the track very well. i use dremal tool with gold bruss and a rag and goo gone.
Read my post "022/711 switch operating pblms" It is a long post on restoring 022 switches. If you go to the trouble of removing the switch and disassembling it, you might as well do everything necessary to make the switch operational for the next 50 years.
Bruce Baker
False Alarm!!! The switch is fine since I restored it 4 months ago according to Bruce Baker's excellent process. However, the adjacent straight track was filthy!!! Heavy black residue on the center rail. Cleaned it up ... all is good. Thanks for the suggestions.
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