I log operational issues on my layout. One repeated issue is uncouplings due to coupler height mismatches. I use traditional Lionel and similar other brand knuckle couplers. What have you done to standardize coupler height on otherwise stock trucks/couplers?
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The only recurring coupler height (and quality) issues I've experienced is with Menards. I've not had that problem among MTH, Lionel and K-Line cars.
Regarding a failed knuckle itself, that has happened with all brands at one time or another. The cure for me has always been epoxy or using a wire wrapped around the coupler to force the uncoupling plate with its attached arm into a fixed position.
Depending on everything, some coupler mounts (as on Postwar trucks) are sheet steel and can be gently bent up/down without harm - indeed, adjustment was expected; modern self-centering (articulated) coupler mounts, with springs, man sometimes be shimmed with washers at the pivot; lower-end, non-articulated freight trucks (for example) are adjustment-hopeless, so far as I can tell. This also applies to Weaver's.
The O "gauge" coupler is a problem that was never solved in the modern era, really - indeed, never really addressed. Kadees are the answer, but I am not about to try to put Kadees on all the stuff I have. If I was starting over and 20 years younger....and then where do I mount them? Trucks for curves or frames for looks and operation?
You might try getting examples of all the known 3RO couplers, do a measuring, and only buy equipment using the acceptable trucks. Seems like a dreary task.
Good luck. The Lionel Postwar couplers really do work well, so far as these things go. The rest? Unh - case-by-case.
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