Transformer Woes

[RobertInOntario]

I have several ancient controllers, and more recent ones by model power and Bachmann Spectrum( from 2003). they have not yet ever crapped out on me.
I can't see powering a switch with the controller being an issue, since it should only be drawing power when you use it.
My only concern is if the switch may be drawing power unintentionally. I had some Atlas Remote Turnouts, where you slide the control switch and press it down momentarily. Several times I've thought that the motor was switched and that no more power was flowing to the switch, only to find that the solenoid had quite literally burned its way out of the plastic switch machine. Needless to say, i no longer use remote turnouts of that type.
Perhaps your switch machine is drawing power through a short of a defective/unreliable piece of hardware. I would disconnect the switch if you haven't already then see what happens.
As for the controller being loose, it might not hurt to open it up carefully, noting the location of all components and then manually tightening up whatever screw holds the controller dial/lever in. I'd probably take that opportunity to search for visible signs of damage, such as burnt components.
If you see damage you're not sure you can fix, it may be time to retire the controller or use it for less strenuous purposes.

Thanks. First, I think I'm going to re-attached my wires to the controller more carefully and neatly as I think that could improve things. Also, I'll do as you suggest and try using the transformer when the switch wires are not connected to it. I'm not too keen on taking it apart myself but a guy at my LHS might be able to.

Thanks again,
Rob