I consulted the MT conversion chart and I know that it says that the MT 2004 [(001 02 052)-1] is the coupler to use when converting the Bachmann Spectrum tenders and the 1133 [1133 (001 33 030)] is the one to use when converting the older [non Spectrum] tenders. However, I'm looking at both the Spectrum as well as the non Spectrum tenders side by side and I can't tell the difference between them as far as the couplers. They both sport a "T" shank coupler. The non Spectrum has a Rapido and the Spectrum has Bachmann's new dummy knuckle coupler. The coupler box itself appears to be identical on both, so what am I missing?
The 2004 is for body-mount applications, and the 1133 is for truck mount and body mount with the clip-on coupler cover.
Both the Spectrum as well as the non Spectrum have the clip on coupler cover. So why does the MTL conversion chart say use the 2004 coupler for the Spectrum and the 1133 for the non Spectrum? Seems to me the conversion chart is in error and if so that only begs the question of whether there are other errors in the conversion chart.
My choice is usually the 2004. The 1133's are a pain in the patoot to install, they have a lot of verticle slop, and I don't trust the snap clips. 2004's are a little bit of work, especially with the new tenders which have metal bodies but it is worth it for a much more solid install.
I need some guidance with your "little bit of work". I picked up a Spectrum Heavy Mountain w/USRA Long Tender, Model 82514, recently(Jan 2013) from a LHS going out of business. It was new in the box, but looking it up I see that these were released in 2006 or 2007. The MT conversion chart lists the 2004 as the replacement for the Light Mountain, but no mention of the Heavy. Nevertheless, I picked up a 4-pack of the 001 02 052 (2004-1) but I'm having difficulty mounting it. The draft box appears too wide for the slot provided on the tender. I know that I'll have to drill and tap a new hole to secure the coupler to the tender, but do I have to file the underside flat? George
You have to file the two ears off of the coupler mounting area, then drill a hole for the coupler mount screw if I remember correctly. The light mountain and heavy mountain had the same tenders except for the C&O heavy version.
Thanks Tony for the quick and correct work-around. Coupler installed, loco operational. Great!! Thanks again George
