Hi, It started with my grandson's interest in trains, my second grandson is more interested in the ho slots because they go fast! So, I put up a 4 by 8 ho basic oval with a race track in the middle. As a start up, I am more interested in functionality, we will work on realistic layouts later in life if the hobby takes. So, since this may only be a "fad", I am investing as little money as possible. I looked around on the interweb and found this forum to be the most informative. I thank all of you in advance for your help and experience, because I will have questions and issues. I will start here, but please direct me to the proper forum for questions and answers? As a start, a friend of mine gave me enough Bachman nickle plated ez track for a decent oval, along with misc. cars and a couple of older engines (no DCC as of yet) . I have plans for the future to add a couple of electronic turnouts and some magnetic sections so we can uncouple and couple cars without touching them (it will keep the older one interested). I have a basic train, (Matura, tyco?) with those hokey plastic couplers. I want to use the magnetic knuckle couplers, which half of the cars have, and half of those stay coupled ok (havn't even thought of magnets yet) I was told at the beginning by a train enthusiast, that compatibility is key! QUESTION 1, which couplers would be the best for me to use (I do understand I won't be able to change couplers on the cheaper cars) overall. QUESTION 2, I purchased, on Ebay, a Life-Like engine in very good shape, except it has no couplers on it. It has the mounts for them, but doesn't have those plastic u shaped pieces to lock them on. Is there a source for spare, extra parts for these? I have pictures, but I don't know if I can attache them here. Thank you all for your help/advice! Jim
Hi Jim, welcome. You're right, compatibility is key to not having to worry about nit-picky things. Which coupler brand...I've used MT (nee KD) for over 30 years, but there may be some newer brands which others prefer. Spares...is there a hobby shop or club nearby (less than an hour) where you can talk and get advice? Most of us have boxes of "stuff" that we've accumulated over the years and would be happy to share. But that usually means sitting around a table matching your equipment with our "stuff" while sipping adult beverages.
Jim- Welcome to TrainBoard! Hop on over to our HO Forum area, and ask the good folks there. I am certain they can help with answers, such as naming the Kadee brand for couplers.
