I need to install some Kadee’s. I need to know what ones before I order them. Now I did replace the crappy plastic plow with one from Details West with MU Hoses and working Ditch Lights. Now will I need a longer one for the front???
Thanks
I have been installing #78’s on all my locos. They are very nice looking couplers and correct to scale. The draft gear, box and coupler are already assembled. Check em out I think you will make the change!!
I put a KD #5 on my RTR AC4400 and it fits perfectly. Better yet, use the new #148 whisker coupler.
It’s always a good idea to keep some of the #5’s on hand. They’re a medium height, medium length shank coupler. Any time you’re not sure what type coupler to use, drop one of them in and check it with the Kadee coupler height gauge. If it lines up properly and the shank length is good, leave it there. If not, it will show you quickly which offset you will need to adjust the height, or shank length you need for wider or closer coupling. Then it’s a simple “check the drawings” to find the number you need.
With all the Kadee couplers I’ve installed on cars and locos, I can say that the charts and what other people have used is a guideline, not an absolute. ALWAYS check it with the gauge. I have some cars that have different couplers on each end to line up properly with the gauge, and mounting them properly will save you many headaches in the future (yes, that’s the voice of experience).
And the gauge is only $4.00, not a huge expense for the headaches it can spare you.