I wanted to share how you can completely destroy a brand new Peco Switch (HO) everytime with almost no effort. First you must be using the PL-10E Long shank peco switch machine. Simply connect the switch machine to the switch, how makes no difference, so long as you need to trim the length of the shank. After you have the switch nicely installed, wired and ready to go, you will need to cut the shank to the correct length. If you use your dremel cutoff wheel, like I have done 3 times, I will assure you instant destruction to the switch. The instant heat of the cut melts the throwbar enough to destroy either the bar itself, or the spring will be totally unusable. I have done this three times, have three defective switches to prove it. This is a well tested and verified method of wasting about 60 hard earned bucks. By the way, I have found no way of getting these repaired, emails to the manufacturer go unaswered.
Although this is a very old post, I found it through google and thought I should respond. I too have suffered this fate, but there is a solution. I first cut it as close as I can to the switch. I then take a dremal and carefully grind off any excess a "LITTLE" at a time and I apply a wet sponge repeatedly to keep the metal cooled down so it does not melt the switch. Really, it is not to bad, just takes some time.
I just posted a how to fix/repair short hinged switches in the how to section or try this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZHL25RgH4E&feature=related
