When using TIEBREAK contacts, options other than 1, ties nodes ONLY if the nodes are initially in contact. Nodes not initially in contact will not be tied but can interact with master segments like the traditioanal compression-only contacts. To enforce the “initially” in contact condition, the [initial_separation-(slave_thickness+master_thickness)*0..5] < 0 which causes the initial penetration or initially in contact condition. If this value is greater than zero, you can use SST or MST values to enforce the condition. The only method to verify if the intended nodes are actually tied is a quick normal mode analysis.