N scale Kato Unitrack switch problems

[John Cushman]

I have recently purchased numerous new N scale Kato #6 switches. Two out of ten switches do not seem to work with the manual selector button. It feels like there are no detent positions. I have removed the metal underside and inspected the actuating mechanism and don't find anything obviously wrong. Since I am new to Unitrack I am likely overlooking something. Should I replace the switches, or is there a possible repair? Eventually these will be wired to actuate electrically, but for a while I need the switches to be thrown manually.

[Doug G.]

Aren't Kato Unitrack switches perfect?



Doug

[Hedron]

Do they not switch properly, or is it that the tactile feedback is not consistent?
I have six on my layout. I operate them only manually for now. They just slide from one limit to the other, I don't feel detents, if I take your meaning.
I do have one that doesn't seem to quite lock in to take traffic to the siding. It needs direct encouragement to the rail get into its spot. I believe a bit of ballast got in there. It's bolted down and ballasted into a T-track so inspection options are limited.

[John Cushman]

The two switches that are malfunctioning do not switch with the manual button at all, I have to move the switch manually and if the track is not all the way in the thrown direction it comes up as a fault on the DCC (Digitrax) controller. I really thought it would be something easy to fix, but I can't see what is wrong.
I discovered the switches not working before they were glued in place or ballasted, so it isn't a major problem, just another delay.

[learmoia]

Is the throw wire (inside) attached correctly to the throw bars?

I've run into that with #4s but I forget how similar/dissimilar #6s are on the inside.

~Ian

[John Cushman]

I found the problem, the screw that retains the movable switch track was just a little too tight. Originally I thought the track moved freely, but it wasn't free enough. Both problem switches are working fine now. I found a post a few years old where someone else was having a problem. Thanks again.

[OldEastRR]

Just when after years of hearing about Kato track I decide to go ahead and build a yard with it, suddenly people are writing in with Unitrack problems. Did I miss Unitrack's "golden Years"/

[peteski]

Just when after years of hearing about Kato track I decide to go ahead and build a yard with it, suddenly people are writing in with Unitrack problems. Did I miss Unitrack's "golden Years"/

Not at all.  Look at what the fix consisted of. Doesn't look like a something that would happen often, and it is easily remedied.

[randgust]

At least on the 4's the big issue remains notching the stock rails to seat the points better. 

Since those are the 'standard' on T-trak modules it's a continuing source of derailments at the junction modules, only on entering the diverging route.  I've modified mine, they are now flawless.  Lots of threads out there on this process.