Question about Bachmann Couplers and coupler Pockets

[markosjal]

I am making and modifying some boxcars.

As I presently live in Mexico parts are expensive and difficult to find here.

I was reading that some people say for instance that Kadee couplers do not fit into Bachmann pockets unless the coupler is ground down. Then I saw a video on Youtube installing a Kadee coupler into a Bachmann pocket with no filing or grinding. There seems to be conflicting info on this.

In one instance I need a single Horn Hook coupler on a European car as a transition car. I may switch to Kadee or at least that type of coupler at a later time and want to be able to use a Kadee coupler in the same pocket later.

Also I am making some boxcars out of wood and in one case I have a very old boxcar kit from like 1950s .

I am worried if I put the Kadee pockets on them that the Bachmann horn hooks may be too short to fill out the pocket (reverse of problem earlier) and flop around vertically.

I see the Bachmann horn hook couplers for sale everywhere but where can I find the pockets? I need to be able to get a reliable soultion to mexico as I will pay internationsl shipping and importation.

Thanks

Mark

[jonathan]

Markos,

There is a very, very small difference between sizes of Bachmann and Kadee coupler pockets.

I have put a Bachmann coupler in a Kadee pocket. There is very minimal vertical movement (sag). The coupler will still hold OK.  Other folks may have a different experience.

When I put a Kadee coupler in a Bachman pocket, I use a needle file on the coupler shank.  Just a few swipes on both sides will fix it.  Again, size difference is minimal.  If you don't have a needle file, you can "burnish" the Kadee coupler.  Use a small piece of metal, like a drill bit or something.  Rub both sides of the coupler shank for a while.  The coupler may get shiny as you rub.  That's a good thing.  You should get just enough change so the coupler will move more freely in the Bachmann pocket.

Hope that helps.

Regards,

Jonathan

[Len]

Also check the coupler pocket lid. If it has a rabbet around the edge, so the center section fits lower into the pocket than the edge, flipping the cover over should create enough room for a Kadee coupler without any filing.

Len

[markosjal]

Since I am ordering Bachmann coupler, where do I get a BACHMANN pocket at the same time?

[jonathan]

Bachmann coupler pockets are an integrated part of the frame on rolling stock and locomotives.  They cannot be sold separately.

Regards,

Jonathan

[RAM]

Just go with the Kadee coupler with pockets and be done with it.