Hi
I have several PIC three aspect signal controllers all working very satisfactory. I use a SMPS 12 volt power source to feed all the circuits and each board has a 7805 5v regulator to set the volts for the PICs and to feed the signals (Eckons).
I have some that include a Junction Indicator circuit via the point ahead position (Solenoid motors with twin coil latching relays).
I use both 18M2 and 8M2 PICs
I have found that the IR Rx are always susceptible to ambient lighting of the room. Some lights cause far worse false triggering than others do! Hence fit pots to allow adjustments fordiffering lighting levels where the circuits are used on portable exhibition layouts.
Try placing a small tube around the Tx and Rx IR LEDs to screen them from room lighting to see if the circuit works then.
I'm happy to send you the files and circuits if you use the PICAXE editor 6.1 software. Though they are all for three aspect signalling control.
However, all this said, I have to say that the MERG dual channel Hector IR kit item 72A is absolutely excellent in detection. Currently £9.11 to members. I also have a BlockSignalling Aspect Controller ASP1-NS excellent too.