Any one converting rolling stock(N-Scale) to Micro-Train couplers using original trucks and then assembling and installing new couplers? Tried a couple - not sure the juice is worth the squeeze. Ended up installing Micro-trains trucks and couplers.
Second question about converting. I have a Kato SD80MAC and GE AC4400CW. I need to convert to MT couplers - any suggestions, tips or reference source. Thanks.
Yes, I have been converting my N scale cars to MT couplers for years (not done yet!).
I use mostly 1015/1016 couplers, which need to be assembled. I assemble a large amount all at one time. Seems to go faster as an assembly-line process.
I examine the old trucks and replace those that show signs of wear, warping, etc with MT trucks w/o couplers. The assembled couplers are body mounted. I made a drilling jig (actually, several drilling jigs, depending on the car’s manufacturer) out of styrene to locate the mounting hole for the couplers. With the couplers pre-assembled, the mounting goes pretty quick.
Notes: If the existing trucks on a car are okay to use, I place the car on a test track with the MT coupler height gauge. One end of the gauge has a pointed projection on it. I run the car up the the pointed projection to determine if the coupler will need to be shimmed (lowered) or if a washer will need to be added at the bolster (raised) to get the coupler at the correct height. Most of the cars need to have the coupler pockets shimmed. If the trucks are going to be replaced, I replace them first, then check against the gauge to determine mounting height.
I prefer body mounted couplers which helps prevent derailments when backing a long string of cars. Truck-mounted couplers are sometimes skewed from the pushing and cause the wheels to pick turnout points and find bad spots in the trackwork. On some cars (tankers and hoppers), I use truck mounted couplers because there isn’t anywhere to mount the coupler pocket to the body.
The Micro Trains website has conversion charts and lists the convesion kits for most locomotives. Look there for the conversion kit to fit your locomotives.
Converting to MT couplers is time-consuming and tedious work, but well worth the effort.
Hope this helps.
Darrell, quiet…for now
I am in the process of trying to convert my first loco to MT couplers and I am having a hard time of it due to the size ( bad eye sight and fumble fingers). from now on I will buy only locos/rolling stock that already have knuckle couplers. if possible I will use replacement trucks with couplers to convert my existing rolling stock but I have thought about doing the body mount versions instead of the truck mounts. Any one have problems mixing MT and accumate knuckles when running on layouts?
I do the easy way, I replace the trucks with MT trucks.
For the Kato SD80/90’s I used MT-2004’s which fits very well. I will be using the same for my AC4400’s.
Cheers,