Fastrack Multi-track Short Problem

[AceTrainsFan]

Hello. I have a shorting problem and would appreciate any advice.

My new layout has two large loops of track around a 14 X 18 u-shaped layout. Most of it is Fastrack. The entire section at issue here is Fastrack. I am using a Z-4000 with the outer loop hooked to Track 1 and the inner to Track 2 on the Z-4000. Track 2 works fine.

The only places where Track 1 and Track 2 meet is a series of four Fastrack 0-36 switches. They are separated in each case, two per side, with at least one of the little Fastrack insulated tracks with the wires underneath completely removed, thus presumably making dead sections. Problem is, when I power up Track 1, one - just one - of the switches on Track 2 lights up, and there is a short with the flashing red light, etc.

I have isolated the problem to this area. Where both tracks separating the switches are removed (ie, the tracks are separated) both work perfectly.

So, somehow power is getting through the supposedly dead section. I even snapped off the center rail tabs in the area and covered with electrical tape. No luck.

I feel I am missing something obvious, but am flummoxed. Thank you for any advice.

[lionelsoni]

I understand that you have two loops with two crossovers between them, comprising four O36 turnouts.  Do you have the transformer's common terminal (any of the black ones mis-labeled "-")connected to the outside rails generally?  Do you have the individual variable outputs (mis-labeled "+") connected each to the center rail of one loop?  Can you be more specific about what the "little...insulated tracks" are?  And why you want "dead sections" between the loops?  And do you have a manual for the turnouts or a link to one?