My new MTH passenger car has a problem with the coupler opening when the train takes up the slack moving forward. I discovered I could repeat it by hand. So how do I fix it?
Rob
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Check it against another car, the spring pressure on the uncouple button should be similar.
Visually compare it with others in the set or similar type car, is it missing a part or loose?
Bottom line once you determine the issue, call MTH and get a replacement piece for the problem one.
Visually compare it with others in the set or similar type car, is it missing a part or loose?
Bottom line once you determine the issue, call MTH and get a replacement piece for the problem one.
The problem usually happens with coulpers using the tab and thumbtac, the way I fix mine is by using the tiny rubber bands used on orthodonic braces. Put it around the coupler arm and color it in with a black sharpie and you'll never see it, works great.
Joe
Joe
quote:The problem usually happens with coulpers using the tab and thumbtac
Thats what I have here. No parts are missing, maybe the spring is too weak?
Rob
quote:Thats what I have here. No parts are missing, maybe the spring is too weak?
Rob thats right, weak spring causing the pin to drop and open the coupler. You could try moving the car further back in your consist if it's not a head end car, sometimes that works, but try the rubber band trick, quick fix and works great.
Joe
If the armature, when viewed from the side, appears to be "hanging down" a bit, try
bending it up a little with pliers. This problem is not as common as it once was, as
couplers have been better-designed and built since the first "thumbtack" days.
Rather than a twist-tie or rubber band, hot glue can keep the armature up, while looking
better and still remain reversible. Haven't used it myself, but some swear by it.
bending it up a little with pliers. This problem is not as common as it once was, as
couplers have been better-designed and built since the first "thumbtack" days.
Rather than a twist-tie or rubber band, hot glue can keep the armature up, while looking
better and still remain reversible. Haven't used it myself, but some swear by it.
I just used Gorilla glue to fix it. I will never need to remote uncouple these.
Rob
Rob
quote:Originally posted by D500:
If the armature, when viewed from the side, appears to be "hanging down" a bit, try
bending it up a little with pliers.
I agree this is most common problem if all the others work OK. Also check the bottom of the coupler to make sure no flash is present preventing the pin from fully engaging. On Atlas cars that have this problem I remove some of the metal to allow the pin to move up further.
Pete
i usually wrap both couplers in electric tape....holds up great...
