Coupler throw issue

Beaumont Yard Jul 20, 2015

  1. Beaumont Yard

    Beaumont Yard TrainBoard Member

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    I am building a switching layout using kato unitrack. The switches are #4 because I got a great deal on a bunch of them.

    The engine I have is an Atlas 8-40cw. The coupler does not swing far enough side to side and pulls the car off the track when going through the switches. Is there a way to fix this, or would a shorter engine not do this?
     
  2. JimJ

    JimJ Staff Member

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    I wonder if Micro Trains sells a replacement coupler that would fit, maybe with a longer shank. Is it possible to trim anything to allow your coupler to swing wider? Just brain stormin'.
     
  3. Ike the BN Freak

    Ike the BN Freak TrainBoard Member

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    Micro-Trains does not do HO couplers, Kadee does.

    To the OP, you can try a longer shank coupler, however the problem may not go away. I think the issue is going to be a combo of the long loco and short #4 turnouts.
     
  4. JimJ

    JimJ Staff Member

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    Oops. I don't know why I was thinking N scale.
     
  5. Mike VE2TRV

    Mike VE2TRV TrainBoard Member

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    Get a switcher or a shorter four axle road switcher. A Das8 8-40CW is pretty big engine to do switching :eek:. Useful in a hump yard, though.

    Try a Geep or an MP15. Older models like S2/S4 or NW2 by Atlas or Kato are great choices.
     
  6. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    That is the issue. Getting shorter wheelbase switcher should be helpful.
     
  7. John Smith

    John Smith TrainBoard Member

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    Couple things... First, it could depend on the loco. I have a C40-8 that has no issues with a #4. But, I have two AC4400's that will not when coupled together. However, if I use the C40-8 behind one of the AC4400's... I have no issues. Also, it depends on the length of the cars I am coupled to. If I am using a six axle... I try not to have 40 ft covered hoppers right next to it. I try to put a 60 ft box or longer length next to the loco. Second, it could be the switch itself. From my experience, the switches are all not in the same specs. On one #4, I was able to "tweek" it a bit, and all my six axles go through it. Hope this helps! JMS
     
  8. Mike VE2TRV

    Mike VE2TRV TrainBoard Member

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    No... it made me dizzy...:confused::p
     
  9. Beaumont Yard

    Beaumont Yard TrainBoard Member

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    Thank you all for the input. Long shank couplers fixed my issue!
     

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