Modeling an FT set with couplers

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I have a couple of the Stewart FT sets, as well as a Bachmann set. The Stewarts come with drawbars, while the Bachmann set is coupled. In the prototype world, most roads had their sets delivered with drawbars, while a few (such as ATSF) had their delivered with couplers.

I am pretty sure that the Bachmann couplers keep the units more that the scale width apart. I am wondering if anyone has modeled a coupled set (Stewart or Bachmann or otherwise) and, if so, how did you model the couplers?

I have heard them called “Santa Fe couplers,” but I have never found prototype pictures that actually show the couplers, much less model photos.

I free-lance, so I am thinking maybe my road initially ordered drawbared sets, and then later went to couplers, so I thought I give modeling them a shot.

Thanks!

2

Kadee has a coupler with a “low set shank” that allows a good position. Also see if they have a scale coupler with low shank. I would use that, but I would cut off the actuator “hose”. part to avoiod any unintentional disconnect between the A and B units. Also the short drawbar is the correct distance. Note that later models with couplers had a greater separation and end grab handrail bars and steps, not found on the drawbar units.

3

John,
Thanks for the response, and the suggestions! I knew there was more space between couplered units, but I think the Bachmann’s are little too far apart. I will look for those different couplers.[^]