module can't add a token to field via a setting

This is a problem which I cannot figure out. I have written a module that sets a file path via a file directory setting. I find I need to place the file in a unique directory and so as a result I need to use either the file ID or the node Id in the directory path.

As long as I use the manage fields forms I can make the module work as needed. But I cannot make it work with a setting from the module. I can see the Token. But It either says the files cant be uploaded or leaves it in the temp directory. If I manually erase the token from the manage fields edit form and them reenter it Exactly and save it. The module works. Now I can use a setting to enable file field paths - it changes the checkbox state and the format of the manage fields edit form but has no other effect on the module. If I cycle the checkbox manually them everything works. This is really bizarre behavior. I have looked at the code but I can not figure it out. Someone needs to look at this as it goes to the heart of the modules basic purpose. I am using Drupal 7.56 with Apache 2.4 and PHP7.1. Running under Win 10 of port 81. if ant of that matters