Remote switches (1122) O gauge not working properly, please HELP

[wrmcclellan]

Interesting,

I assume the "shorting" you describe is when the loco contacts the control rails (the ones you describe in the V portion of the switch). It is common for these rails to put off a few sparks when the loco crosses.

On to your problem - What direction is the train coming from when the derailment occurs?

One assumption is that it coming from the top of the V as you describe it. The switch has an automatic non-derailing feature that attempts to set the swtich to the direction the train is approaching from.

Two issues can occur here. If the switches are not moving freely, the train speed overcomes the ability of the switch to align the route in time and thus the train derails.

Second, these switches are powered by track power. If the power is low these switches may not switch promptly and again a derailment ensues.

GIve us a bit more detail and we will see what we can do for you.

Regards,
Roy

[Big_Boy_4005]

Over the years the design of switches has changed. You may simply have the insulating pins in the wrong locations. I'm pretty sure that the straight leg insulated section was always on the short rail, going to the frog. It is on the curved side where the design changes moved the pin.

Look for a break in the outside curved rail. If your switches have that gap, then the pin belongs on that rail. If not, then it goes on the inside rail also leading to the frog.

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I have a pair of remote switches for my modest layout. The insulating pins are in place on inner rails on the V portion of the switch. ("O" gauge,) The switch operates with power applied to track. The problem is that when a loco travels over the switch, it seems to short out, causing the switch to operate, thus derailing the train. Does anyone have any additional information on the topic, or online resource, or other advice on solving this problem?

Thanks,
Michael