Dear Wiz,
The North Star is a rather old set, so the track connections might be loose. You can use small zip ties to snug them together, and this should ameliorate the other issues.
Good luck!
the Bach-man

Dear Tascam,
It sounds like dirty track. Your hobby shop should have a good liquid track cleaner, and we have several track cleaning cars that may help.
Have fun!
the Bach-man

Dear Rhino,
The most likely cause is a rail joint or two where the rail is sitting on top of, rather than in, the rail joiner. Rub your finger along the track to feel for any rough spots.
Good luck!
the Bach-man

Dear Steve,
I'll pass along that idea.
I like it!
the Bach-man

Dear John,
Please call the service department and describe the problem. If they have the necessary parts they'll be happy tho help.
Happy Holidays!
the Bach-man

Dear 82,
At the reverse point there is a tiny gap in one rail. cleaning that out with an Xacto blade often helps.
I believe you can reposition the power pack as well.
Good luck!
the Bach-man

Dear Rick,
You can wire them in series or parallel; whatever works for you.
Have fun!
the Bach-man

I wonder how the connected the backwards tender in the Applebee's ad!
Have fun!
the Bach-man

Please contact the service department.
They will have your information,
Thanks!
the Bach-man

Check the gauge of the wheels. They may be a bit out of gauge and need adjustment.

Turn the switch over and you will see a score mark that allows you to snap off enough roadbed to fit the next track section.
Have fun!
the Bach-man

Dear NRM,
You'll probably have to cut a piece of mildly abrasive material, as this item is many years out of production.
Good luck!
the Bach-man

Please contact the service department for parts.
Thanks!
the Bach-man

Thanks, Fred!
the Bach-man

Nope!
I'm still here!
the Bach-man