What Kadee coupler will fit this box?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I have a nice old all-metal boxcar, not sure of the make, and would like to replace the horn-hook couplers with Kadees–but the draft gear box is too narrow for the typical centering spring and coupler shank to fit (see picture). Would any of you know if there’s a Kadee style that will fit? The guy at my local hobby shop suggested it’d be easier to just grind off the existing draft gear boxes and glue new ones on, but I’d rather not cut this up if I can help it.

Thanks!

Dean

2

The Kadee #4 coupler would probably be the best fit for this pocket.

3

Yeah, #4s should do it. One disadvantage with these couplers is they have slack (in-and-out action). This can be a problem when you have a string of such cars in the same train. Also, cars with all-metal floors, coupler boxes, and couples can create unexpected short circuits. You can always chisel/grind/file the old coupler box off and install a plastic one that holds a coupler without slack action.

Mark

4

Thanks, gentlemen. I’ll give the #4s a try. This is the only car I have with this type of draft gear, so I’ll hope for trouble-free operation… :slight_smile:

Dean

5

I dont know, but you can file down the sides of couplers that dont fit. Also, it looks like a Horn Hook coupler box, so I dont think any other coupler will fit in there unless you change the box type.

6

Yup, Kadee #4

David B