I have an IHC mogul and a hudson and I’m wondering if there is an easy way to install working couplers on the pilots.
It is possible, I did two myself a few years back. Unfortunately I don’t recall the entire process. I “think” I used long shank couplers and had to file the opening a bit.
I can’t comment on the Hudson, but the Mogul is a very easy conversion. I used a Kadee #5 in its own coupler box. Remove the mounting “ears” from the sides of the box, then enlarge the opening in the pilot until the Kadee box just fits. Leave the cast-on coupler pocket extension that’s part of the loco’s pilot, and insert the Kadee pocket until its upper lip butts against it. I drilled and tapped the underside of the pilot for a 2-56 screw, using the hole in the Kadee box to determine the proper location.
Although looking at this photo of the underside of the loco makes me think that I may have lengthened the pilot somewhat, in order to accommodate the coupler box without having it interfere with the lead truck. Looks like a couple of strips of .060" styrene on either side of the frame, just visible between the frame and the backs of the cylinders. Looks as if they’ve been relieved somewhat so as to not interfere with the wheels of the lead truck:
If you don’t wish to lengthen the frame, a Kadee #7 may fit, although it will likely need to be assembled in place.
Wayne
Nice job
IHC Moguls are great runners
Have one on my RR but didn’t change out the front coupler only the one on the tender
You have inspired me to do the front
Welcome to the forums.
The Kadee site mentioned has very good description of how to do many conversions. Drawings to go along with text for most.
I have printed off the instructions for several IHC’s I have, haven’t done any yet. My mogel is wheels up in the holder, readdy for me to get started.
Good luck,