I’m considering Sergent Engineering couplers for my small HO scale switching layout. Has anyone had experience with these couplers (good or bad)? I have a sample set on order.
Uncoupling apparently requires the use of a magnetic wand, and coupling requires the knuckles to be in the open position. Fortunately all parts of my layout are easy to reach from the isle (one advantage of a small layout).
Any thoughts?
They are the most accurate for appearance, not cheap and not compatible with anything else. Sounds like they are perfect for you.
I bought a few pairs to ‘play with’. Here are my observations:
o - Wonderful scale appearance and size
o - The knuckles must be manually ‘opened’ to couple(like the prototype).
Will I ever use them on my layout? No Way! Even if the only trains were mine, these couplers are a real pain to couple with. You will be adjusting drawbars all the time(just like the real stuff). The ‘Wand’ uncoupler is not too bad, but not as easy as using my minature screwdriver with the Kadees. Also, there is limited mounting arrangements(no 10 gazillion mounting/shank styles like with the Kadee couplers). I plan to use them on ‘contest’ models.
I think we sometimes tend to go overboard with a ‘better mousetrap’ sometimes, and do not realize how good we have it with the Kadee couplers. Auto coupling, excellent ‘gathering’ range, and many mounting/shank styles - We have it better than the prototype!
Jim Bernier
They look good on my two RPP Clinchfield SD-45-2’s on my shelf, but on my fleet I use on the layout? Nah. Too much of a pain in the ***.
I’ve considered them, but to re-equip my entire fleet would cost a lot, in terms of both money adn time. Kadee 58s for now.
I’ve got a couple of pairs to experiment with, and I’ll probably get a few more to test thoroughly before placing any large order for them. They sho’nuff look purty, and the uncoupling method is compatible with the type of hands-on switching I prefer.
We shall see…