Coupler alignment

[rbryce1]

I have some Bachmann Silver Series freight cars where the coupler alignment is off slightly based on the NMRA Coupler height gauge.  The coupler needs to go up slightly.  Typically, I install a small spacer/washer (Kadee .010 or .015 thickness) on the truck shank between the truck and the body to raise the coupler, but Bachmann has made the truck shank outside diameter larger than normal, so these washers will not fit.  Is there a washer/spacer available that will work with the Bachmann design?

[jonathan]

I have run into this problem with some older equipment, along with some Bachmann cars.

I have done one of two things:

Cut a slit into the washer to allow it to spread a bit on the bolster; or

use a round needle file to gently file out the middle of the washer hole.  I prefer this solution.

Other than the Kadee washers, Tichy has plastic spacers/washers on the Brake Sprue they offer for sale in their parts section.  You will run into the same problem, but the plastic washers are easier to ream out.

Regards,

Jonathan

[jbrock27]

Would replacing the coupler w/an Underset shank one, work for you?  (assuming the one in there is not already one of those).

[Terry Toenges]

Can you just cut one out of a piece of plastic like a water bottle? I know some of those water bottles are pretty thin but I don't know the measurement. Maybe a piece from plastic that so many thing are packaged in now.

[jbrock27]

If one was to go that route, getting a thin sheet of styrene would be the way to go.  Drill a hole to accommodate the bolster, then use a hole punch to punch a disc out around that center hole, like Jim Banner would do from time to time.