Theakerr Posted March 25, 2011 Share Posted March 25, 2011 I am in the process of converting some of my fixed consists to three link coupling. I have found that on all my later Bachman models, the cast plastic coupling hook is strong enough to pull at least 32 wagons and that the slot at the back of the hook appears (Photo 2)[to be designed to take three link coupling chain. Basically, the top of the slot is a press fit push in for the chain link yet once in the bottom is open enough so that the chain link can rotate. Very simple conversion (once you have made up the three links). FYI I am using Slaters three link couplings. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
halfwit Posted March 25, 2011 Share Posted March 25, 2011 I've done the same myself on a couple of Bachmann wagons that I own, both mineral wagons. Seems to work ok. Not all Bachmann hooks are suitable though, the hooks on my 14t tank wagons for example aren't. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Theakerr Posted March 26, 2011 Author Share Posted March 26, 2011 I have now been able to do this on late model iron ore wagons, mineral (coal) wagons and coke wagons. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
signalmaintainer Posted March 27, 2011 Share Posted March 27, 2011 I'll consider this on my next batch of Bachmann wagons. One would think they'd come up with something more to scale and bit more sturdy, though. For now, I'll stick with Smiths. Thanks for posting the idea! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pete Piszczek Posted March 27, 2011 Share Posted March 27, 2011 Clever, but not a wise idea if you are planning on long consists and have grades, that stretch for long distances, to contend with... I'm weighting my 10' WB wagons to approximately 60 grams, using Smith's, and epoxy resin to secure the shanks. We have in excess of a 1000' run on our club layout and a pair of helixes that are over 12' tall. There are places where a runaway could lead to a substantial fall to a concrete floor. A broken coupling, or even something as simple as vertically out of alignment Kadees, could genuinely lead to a disaster. I've seen it happen and it scares me to no end... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jwealleans Posted March 27, 2011 Share Posted March 27, 2011 Smiths are easier to couple/uncouple if you're shunting or splitting rakes. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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