My Kato SD38-2 loses it cars when it goes around curves. The curves are 18 radius. Does anybody know of better couplers that will keep the cars connected better. My layout is a 4x8 and my sd40-2’s work ok on these curves with cars. Thanks
Try using long-shank couplers. Also you might want to check to see if the coupler heights are the same since that could also be the problem if you track is not exactly level. I have several of the SD38-2s and my layout has a branch with an 18" radius curve but I haven’t seen this problem even with my smallest ore cars.
I agree that your curve is probably not as ‘level’ as you believe it to be, and when the loco runs past a join, it tilts downward while the next car is still nose-up, so-to-speak. Also, if your couplers are mating at only half their vertical profile, this non-level curve will lift the loco’s coupler clear, and the rest is a marvel of physics. Adjust the height of your couplers, and all will be well. I’m not sure about the longer shank; I think that a longer shank will swing upward in a greater arc relative to the coupling interface, and the problem will be compounded, but it might be worth a look.
What you may be looking for is greater lateral coupler swing which the longer shank will not provide.
http://www.kadee.com/htmbord/page113.htm for $7.00 per pack, two brackets w/o coupler.