When you correct the fault with the unharnessed oscillating crank, this falls into the neutral position.
Remarks about the translation
Depending on context (I'm assuming its something technical) you could also have 'rocker arm'; 'motion link' instead of "oscillating crank" Or also see below for itsatrap100 's suggestion for 'freigesetzte Schwinge'
I translated *freigesetzt* as "unharnessed", but it could also mean 'redundant'
** thanks to gbernsdorff for suggesting a different meaning for 'Leerstellung'
Laaste geakkrediteerde redigering deur lilian canale - 16 February 2009 14:10
I think that *Leerstellung* is the neutral position (point mort) of a mechanical device.
(by analogy with *in den Leerlauf schalten* = mettre le moteur au point mort/put the engine out of gear)