To ensure consistency of coupling heights throughout the project a small coupling height gauge has been fabricated.

Made out of plasticard, the gauge provides a datum for all couplings from 'top of rail', the pin providing the centre point. To use, a wagon is gently pressed against the gauge and a small depression is left in the surface, this being your datum point, enabling you to drill holes in the correct position.

So with the gauge complete it only seemed right to give it a trial run.

Here a 7mm NG Society coupling has been fitted onto the Gp Van. Final painting, weathering of the coupling (and a dust of the van is required!).

The small tail hanging below the coupling will remain until a decision has been made as to how/ what uncoupling method will be used.