I have come across a problem that is difficult to figure.  I have three switches in line on the main line.  These switches are older Atlas and they are all insulated.  With DC power and DC engines they are fine.  With DCC and DCC steam they short out as soon as the front truck comes into contact with the main line portion even before it reaches the frog.  The front truck does not short the track out in normal movement anywhere but at the switch it creates a short.  I was told to place a plastic rail joiner on one side of the main and on the curved portion of the switch to avoid this problem.  It didn't work as the engine does not even make it to the frog before it shorts.  Any suggestions or should I just replace these switches which will be expensive since there are ten switches off the main line.  I should note that I removed the electrical control from the switches as they were catching the 4-8-4 Daylight and my 2-10-2 by being raised too high.

Hi gang,
     I have read several posts as well as magazines regarding securing track to the board for the layout.  I have tried using small brads pushed into the holes that are on the plastic ties and have found that they sometimes cause a derailment if they are pushed flush with the ties.  I was wondering about using a stapler and securing the track on the outside where I can pop the staple if needed and not mess up the interior area of the track.  Any suggestions?

Is there anyone who knows where I can really accurate information about the DL&W?  My ancestors worked for that railroad in capacities and I would love to find out more about the railroad.

Tom

I have a new class J 4-8-4 Norfolk and Western DCC ready.  It is very impressive and I would like to add the sound chip.  Rather then go to the hobby store for installation I believe I can do it myself since I have built my own amateur radio and computers.  Where can I find that chip?

I have two 4-8-4s and a 4-6-4 on my layout.  The radius curves are 22" which the directions advise is the minimum.  The tracks are level and no matter what speed the front truck on each comes off the track at a certain portion of the curve.  If I run the engines in the opposite direction they stay on but counter clockwise they come off.  Any suggestions?

Is there a specific formula for a smoke engine.  On one of the bottles it listed mineral oil as an ingredient.  Is that something that can be used or is it mixed with something else?