I'm not certain exactly what you're trying to do in the uncoupling
process. The Kadee's work with an electromagnetic ramp because it's
very easy to us it's force to move the decender (air hose), while with
the AF type uncoupler you need a mechanical force to raise a plate that
lifts the coupler pin. I would guess the need here is stronger than
the Kadee type.
If you're stuck with the AF style coupler purchase the SHS or old AF
uncouplers and see what wire and mechanicals they used.
If you're going the Kadee route, then either use what Bob describes, the
Kadee manufactured ramp, or you can make your own electro type. I used
a design used by a well-known local modeler. He used the metal 'girder'
material used to hold light fixtures between floor rafters. They
typically consist of two telescoping pieces. I cut mine about 2" and
wrap my wire in and around the slot. Recently another friend built me
one that might be more effective. He uses just 2 steel plates maybe 2"
square seperated by a bolt. Wire in then wrapped asround the bolt. I
haven't yet installed it but have used them on his layout with absolute
success. I'm not an expert by any means but-- the more wraps and the
thicker the wire the more force you'll get.
Bob Werre
On 3/21/12 9:18 AM, shabbona_rr wrote:
I use craft magnets from the hardware store. I'll post some photos
later. I've used them successfully and economically for years
Bob Nicholson ________________________________________
--- In [email protected] <mailto:S-Scale%40yahoogroups.com>,
"phuster_6" <phuster_6@...> wrote:
>
> I know most of you have Kadee, but the majority of my stock is AF/AF
compatable. I started looking up magnetics, wondering if there was a
low cost option out there that didn't involve a fortune. The most
basic of electromagnets is a nail wrapped in coated wire. Supposedly,
the more times you wrap around, the stronger it gets-and hotter. F
