Shay coupler firing when it shouldn't???

does the track have a dip in those 2 areas?

 

$oo

Actually, no it's very smooth in both areas.

see if any wires from the coupler  are pinched or has a worn spot intermittently touching the frame somewhere creating a circuit.

 

$oo

I'd unplug the coupler from the control board and run it around.  If it still uncouples, it's a mechanical issue.  If it doesn't, it's something electrical.  That will help us narrow it down.

Ok. So I unplugged the coupler from the board. It is still happening???

That tells us it's a mechanical issue.  If it's not to difficult to snake the wire out, replacing it will cost you around $10, that will probably fix it.  If getting it out is a major issue, many folks have removed the rivet and stretched the spring, then replaced the rivet.

do you do switching operations where you need to uncouple things?  if not you could just glue it.

Yes I use the coupler. My engines park in a roundhouse or off a spur on the turntable when not in use and drop pr pick up their cars off at the yard.

Go for a new coupler.  Very easy to change on your engine.

Thanks for all the answers everyone. While reciting some things with the coupler the shay actually broke. The driveshaft running to the front wheels actually is disconnecting from the main linkage. I packed her up and brought it back to Trainland where I purchased it. They are taking care of getting it fixed/replaced. While I was there I picked up an MTH GE Evolution Hybrid, culvert loans and unloader, and the new woodland scenics corner emporium. __Gromet

If you keep doing that, they'll give you nothing but broken stuff to keep you coming in!

 

So I got the shay back already. Working good as new! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rfAxlizVdE&sns=em __Gromet

Great looking layout.  

George

Gromet,

 

Nice job on the layout, looks like your making a lot of progress, keep up the good work.