The problem with some of the AM road switcher type locomotives (the GP-9 and RS-3 in particular) is that the couplers are mounted to the frame on a projecting lug that extends under the end walkways. Because the shells are designed to support the over-sized AF coupler, there's a large opening in the pilot. I prefer to remove the metal lug, mount the coupler on to the shell behind the pilot, and fill in the gap with styrene. That means fabricating a draft gear buffer plate in the process. It's a bit tedious, so I often thought that a cast insert that mounts to the shell would be a great after market product. Having done a bunch of "fill the gap" conversions, maybe the it's about time to work on a master for a suitable casting. That way all you would have to do is cut off the lug, epoxy on the insert, and then attach the coupler.
I posted photos of my previous coupler mounting efforts some time ago, but you can see them in the photo section here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/S-Scale/photos/album/1776201165/pic/list Bob Frascella Wenham, MA On Jan 9, 2013, at 3:11 PM, Bob Werre wrote: > Earl, > > I don't have every AM engine (FP-7, GP-9, 35's, U-25's, FM Trainmaster and > SD-60) but as I recall couplers were really easy to fit to the frame. I do > recall making up a plastic pad for the SD-60, but I assume I didn't receive > the proper one in the first place. Also some of the later units require > removing the couplers to remove the shell, but that's not a big deal. > > Incidently the SHS Kadee type coupler is an excellent choice for the SD-60's. > > > > > On 1/9/13 1:49 PM, [email protected] wrote: > >> >> >> The problem with applying Kadee style couplers is only with the locomotives, >> as far as I know. I am not aware of it being a problem with the rolling >> stock, passenger or freight. >> >> - Earl Henry, Nashville >> >> > > >
