Skip to main content

Reply to "OK - WHAT IS THE SECRET???"

@Buco posted:

For the past two days I have been trying to replace the zinc-pest knuckles in two Lionel "thumb-tack" couplers I have inherited.

I have all the new parts - new knuckles, rivet pins, and hair springs, and everything was going to plan until I had to install that tiny hair spring, the one that keeps the coupler in the open position once it has been activated by the "thumb tack" release.


DSC03732

I understand the small "cranked" leg of the hair spring fits against the inside of the knuckle face, and the spring is then held in place by the rivet pin, but what in the name of the sweet Lord holds that straight section of the spring in place??

Three of these little springs have taken off during the installation process, and gone to that great spring God in the sky, never to be seen of again!!!

What is the trick in getting these small "sporn of Satan" springs into the correct position, and holding them there till you can capture them with the rivet pin???

My patience and the stock of these small springs is running low.

Peter.......Buco Australia.

I hate to laugh at another's expense but you got me here Peter.

And BTW- the springs and other small parts we all lose are with the missing socks from the dryer!

I have a bunch of couplers that need the same repair. I'm thinking it's easier to replace the whole truck than to lose my sanity.

Bob

×
×
×
×
×