Long day, short problems

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Heyas,

As I prepare to install the helix on my dual shelf layout, a step that will effectively cover two days work laying track in my hidden staging yard and wye switch area, I’d decided the prudent thing to do would be to double check the continuity and lack of same between the different sections of track involved.

I’ll admit that I’m stumped and think a search for advice should be performed before I start looking for the BFH and do something drastic. [8]

I’ve disconnected all the wiring connections from the terminal blocks and still have shorts between sections of track that are isolated from each other, as in between the opposing rails in some sections. I’ve secured the track to the cork with white Elmer’s but it doesn’t seem to have created the problem. My turnouts are #4 and #6, Atlas, brown ties. Could they be the source of the problem?

I’m working with straight DC and have no desire to change to DCC so the situation is as it is and any assistance will be greatly appreciated.

Dave (dwRavenstar)

2

My first thoughts on this problem is to look at the switches. You mention a wye, which leads me to believe that is where your problem lies. To me, a wye is nothing more then a reverse loop, just a little more complicated with the switchs is all. The track between the switches have to be isolated into three different blocks, otherwise a direct short will be present. Am I making sense here? Ken P.S. Actually,after thinking this over you will need six blocks and they should beinsulated at both rails. In other words all three switches shoul have insulated rail joiners on all six rails of each switch in the wye.

3

Thanks Erie. I’ll start there.
dw

4

Bad switch, problem solved, thanks