bluestag

A question that I have regarding Dinghams:

While obviously the leading ramp of the hook needs to be raked back as dramatically as it is to ensure that the other vehicle's loop will readily pass over it, does the capture side of the hook need to be parallel to it?   It does need SOME rake to ensure that the loop will not pop out while being pulled, but need it be as much as it is?

If it were less, the looseness of the coupling would be reduced; the adjacent wagons would be closer together.

I think possibly a millimeter could be gained.

I am not in a position to test this theory out myself....

I like the Dinghams in general.   I wonder if you find them coupling a little loose, even for loose coupled stock?    Your photos of stock are very closely photographed, and it does look to me that the gap between buffers is a bit far apart.

What is your opinion?

How far forward are the buffers extending?