Install Dummy Couplers on A-B-B-A Lash Up

Al,

    Go to the Lionel parts webpage and do aa search on E units (E6, E7, E8 etc), search the locomotive parts diagram for Non Operating Coupler. The dummy couplers for E units are shorter than F units for some unexplained reason. Click on the pictures of the non operating coupler which will also give you the measurements. You can also go to the parts diagram for your Santa Fe F units and get the measurements of the non operating coupler so you can make sure how much you are going to reduce the gap. Also I have found that by changing the couplers on only the B units front and rear will reduce the gaps and you will not have to touch your A units. The non operating couplers are not expensive so don’t skimp on how many you order. Pay attention to how the couplers attach to the F B units so that the E unit couplers you want to order are basically a screw in operation. I have done this on my Alco FA ABA and Baldwin Sharks AA units and have successfully reduced the gap. It’s a good time to order some parts with the 50% off sale coming soon. Good luck

JohnB

Thanks John!

I assume you want to replace the electro couplers on the B units. The A units already have dummy couplers on the rear, no? These engines have Liondrive so you can swing the trucks 90 degrees to have access to the couplers. You will have to remove the shells if you want to pull the connectors vs cut wires. I would do that first so you can see the mount to order the correct style dummies. Lionel has dozens of types.

Pete