A Solution to installing Kadee Uncouplers in code 83 track

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Well, after a lot of experimentation, I believe I worked out an easy way to install Kadee delayed uncouplers #321 in Code 83 track. (This uncoupler was made for code 100 and normally sits on top of the ties.

To recap the problem:
The directions say, “cut the ties between the rails at the spikes the length of the uncoupler and then lay a bed of white glue down about even with the top of the ties. Insert the gluing jig with the uncoupler in place. The glue will dry giving support to the uncoupler.” The problem is that the area is so closed in the glue can’t dry (at least not in 2 days).

Solution:

  1. Cut the ties as in the instructions (about 8).
  2. Lay down ballast in slot about even with the tops of the ties.
  3. Lay gluing jig with uncoupler in it over the rails and slightly move it back and forth to make a bed in the ballast.
  4. Carefully wet and then glue ballast with 50/50 white glue.
  5. Let it completely dry.
  6. Insert uncoupler in jig and apply a hobby wood/metal glue (I used Testors) to uncoupler and place over slot.
  7. Let dry and clean inside of rails and etc…

I have tried this on3 and have had good results. I hope this will help others that have experienced this problem. If anyone has more ideas, please post them.

REX

2

I e-mailed Kadee about this some months ago and they said they were working on a lower-profile uncoupler magnet, specifically for Code 83 track. In my case I just went to the under-track magnets and they work fine (they’re cut into the cork roadbed). However- I cannot use any rolling stock with steel weights or steel truck axles, as those magnets just suck the cars to them! Regards- Richard W.

3

toytrain13
I just received some KD under-the-track uncouplers thinking that I would use them in the areas that are easily viewed and the “above tie” in all other areas. I never thought about the magnet having effects on the the rolling stock weights. Hmmmmm! Got to look into that.
I believe that my axles are non-ferrous and will be ok. But, that’s something else I need to check.
Thanks

REX