Model Railway Forum

When removing points, don’t just remove the point but remove a section of track with it at the toe (single track) end.

I think replacement, together with a section of track from the toe end, may now be the option as I've viewed the spring from underneath (hole drilled for point motor) and all is well. I applied a little pressure to the blade to attempt a realignment - no joy. There's nothing obstructing the movement for sure.

I've also realised that as the layout is in its infancy (small branch with a loop off) I have only ever gone across these points out of the toe end before I identified this derailment issue and therefore it's likely it's always been that way and I never noticed until now - maybe.

I did notice gentle pressure to the track bed brings the track closer to the blade - I may try this with some extra track pins before I call in the permanent way men!

It could well be the point itself is not quite sitting flat.

Could be something under the points duch as a track pin. Done it myself.

Update

I have lifted the point - whatever I do I cannot close the tiny gap which has clearly been sufficient to derail in that direction. On comparing it alongside the new one I purchased today the new one does not have a gap - I will lay the new one in its place. Although not looking forward to fitting it back into the gap and joining the toe end to it correctly as it is on a curve!

Anyone free tomorrow?!!

As long as you removed the section of track attached to the toe end it shouldn’t be difficult. Just slide the fishplates out of the way onto the section of track, connect the two tracks on the points heel end, then slide the fishplates back into position.

Thanks Walking thedog I will try that - it is the tow end I removed and loosened off. I am thinking I may need to clip off an extra sleeper so that the fishplate will slide right onto the toe end and clear of the points.

I also have to confess that after all of this I have found the problem and it is probably of my own making. The outer rail is not secure on the base and can be lifted clear. I am unsure but it is entirely possible I have held the soldering iron on too long whilst fixing dropper wires at the toe end causing the chair to melt: mea maxima culpa

Don’t muck about with the points. I suggested you remove a section of track with the points. If you didn’t, remove the sleeper from the track not the points.

Walkingthedog, thank you. That's exactly what I meant.

I will make the necessary soldering alterations (live frog) and fix the point to the board connected to the two tracks at the non-toe end. When the point is secure and throwing correctly and fully I will make necessary adjustments to the track leading into the toe end - it's on a curve but hey ho.

Thanks for all the advice and guidance. Will keep you posted. If you hear screaming in Warminster later this week you will know we are still derailing!

Have faith AJ, you will succeed.