The pins are now available through Lionels Parts Dept, "Replacement parts". Type in "Fastrack Pin" and they'll pop up. If your bending the pins slightly to get a positive contact, don't. I have discovered that using a small pair of needle nose pliers squeeze and the rail itself at the base next to the road bed slightly. This will put that positive contact on the pin being inserted.
When pulling the track pieces apart, ensure your hands are on the ground, and pull steadily increasing the force as necessary. Only go side to side to break the contacts on the bottom of the track. If you use too much side to side, you'll break the center pin and open up the center area of the rails causing a connection problem next time you put the track together.
