Fast Tracks

Hello guys,

I have been using the jigs for about 4 months now, and have made about 3 dozen turnouts ... all perfect BTW. Recently and somewhat suddenly, I have had several turnouts that have the same problem. The problem is that my test set of wheels are kicking out, or hopping at the frog point (actually just prior to the frogpoint), usually for the diverging route. More specifically, it seems that the gauge is too wide between the diverging route stock rail and point rail? or I have a pinching effect at the place where the two point rails bend into the gardrail at the frog point. (BTW, it is not the test wheels. I used several sets, checked their gauge, etc.) Hope this explanation is clear...It's hardto describe in writing.

In any event, I am puzzled, but am wondering if the problem is that the "kink" in the rail is not sharp enough. Perhaps the cut in the point rail is not deep enough (I use a File) and the unintended mini-radius I have introduced is the issue? Has anyone else had this problem?

And/Or, I have noticed that the two point rails can be moved (ever so slightly) forward and backward in the fixture. Is it better to move the forward (ie towards the switch points) or back towards the frog points.

Thanks

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Allan B.

Have you tried checking the kink between the point rails and the wing rails to be sure it's flat? If you're not getting enough of the foot removed before bending, you'll get a hump there. I use the rail nippers to notch them myself, but a file should get it done. Worst case, you can probably file them down flush with a flat mill file or sand them down by putting sandpaper on a piece of flat glass and going at it. That way is good, because the grit dust will darken the low areas and the high areas will be polished in contrast. I use 400 grit. Also, I make a point (no pun intended) of soldering that area first (when I solder that piece), being really sure to get the rail flat and tight to the tie.
I hold the fixture up and sight down the frog's legs to be absolutely sure that the point rails are exactly lined up with the frog. That'll cause all sorts of problems if you get it off too far. Take a good look at one you have a problem with and see if that's what's wrong. It has the effect of narrowing the flangeway and the wheels try to climb the rail. Fixing it requires some skinny files and elbow grease. I hope that helps. Ask more if you don't get what I said.

Jim

Jim,

Thank you. Seems like I've been waiting forever for some help. I think you nailed the issue. I did not mention it in my post, but I was noticing that when I bend the rail it ALWAYS has a high spot at the "kink". I have tried several methods for bending it back to flat. I have been filing the "notch" further into the rail, and this seems to help. I will try your suggestions, particularly the one about sightingdown the line of the frog rail.

Thanks

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Allan B.