diesel & switch

[Anonymous]

[xx(]
I have a new Weaver rsd4/5 6 wheel truck diesel
great little engine but it just will not go through my
cargrave switches at slow speeds without cutting out.
The only way it will go through is at around 17 volts I
think the roller contacts are too far apart, all my other
engines go through without any problem. Any ideas
for a fix that I might be able to try?
thanx very much
Mr. Bob.

[brianel027]

Mr. Bob, the obvious first thing is to make sure the track is clean. Turnouts are always more important to have clean. Use 91% Isopropyl Alcohol on a cloth.

Gargraves had some problems so I've been told with their older model turnouts. Their turnouts were improved more than a few years ago. Try taking a voltage tester and check all rail points on the turnout. You can even make a crude on with a small light bulb with wire leads or a cut piece from a miniature CHRISTmas tree light set. Touch the outside ground wire and then all the inner swivel rails to make sure you have good power on them all.

The Weaver loco should be long enough to make it through the turnout. Also remember traction tires can cause trouble with this, but it usually more of a problem with shorter length engines like the Lionel Industrial Switchers or the RMT Beep. I've had short locos that run through turnouts from one direction but not the other direction. Traction tires can be a big culprit here. It's also imprtant to keep the wheels of the loco clean using the 91% Isoproply Alcohol again.