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Derailment On A Switch
Steven has an o-gauge, 3 rail layout and asks readers:
“I have a switch that I put it in a loop, so the engine can come back in a different direction. Problem is; once the switch is in main line straight and the engine goes through it, no problem, but when engine is coming around the loop, the engine approach it for a curve switch and the switch freezes on the straight line and it does not turn to a curve position for the engine to go in opposite direction, which causes a derailment. How can I fix this problem. I have limited space for this layout. Please help!!!!!!!!!! Thanks.”
4 Responses to Derailment On A Switch
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Hi Steven,
I’m not an expert in model railroads but in my experience with H0 and N scale, and i also had this issue twice.
I think this can happen because:
1. the curve of the turnout is too tight
2. The sleepers in the rail joints are not properly in place and one rail is above the other
3. One of the rails is bent, either in the turnout or in the next section therefore when the engine runs it can be pushed upwards. (For me this was the case both times). Try and see if this is the case, you can use a pair of wheels and just push them over the rails and if you see a slight bump then this is the issue.
Unfortunately in all above cases you need to change a part of track or the turnout.
Good luck,
Lucian
You don’t say whether this point (switch) is electrically or manually operated but can you manually change the direction for the track? If not then something must be blocking the blades and preventing them from moving completely. Check the end of the curved blade near the frog to ensure it is not poking out into the path of a wheel.
Robert
This switch that I was talking about is electric and not manuel.I have been through 3 rt hands
switches which still not working.I wanted this right switch to be automatic so it can switch itself when the engine approachs it in any direction. Straight or curve!!! And still lock up in straight position,even though approaching on a curve side.All three switches are brand new.It is a MTH
rt.hand switch 42 radius switch.
Thanks,
Steven
Steven,
I used to wire these type of switches and if the one rail does not have the insulator in place it is like a short but it is not It is getting power from the other direction These automatic switches have to have the insulator connector in place and if I remember right it was an outer rail. When the wheel crossed the insulator it momentarily clicks the circuit to power the switch motor so the switch will change before the wheel comes over the frog. There should be three wires to connect from your remote switch and you might try checking to make sure they are all connected properly. And check that insulator pin. There should be one on each direction of travel. If it is your three wires and you try to electrically switch it the other way and it fights you to do that then look at those wires and get them on the right posts. Two of the three wires reversed can mess it up. Hope this helps, its been a long time since I wired these kind of switches but I remember having these same problems very well. Newman Atkinson