Kadee coupler problem

You didn't paint them did you? Every Kadee coupler I have ever installed, from HO modeling in the early 1960s, to my current 3RS modeling, has been silky free in its movement. Now, are you talking coupler swing ability or the operation of the "knuckle", i.e. opening & closing?

if you painted the contact faces, for sure will be hard to engage them.
my ones work very smooth.
Andre.

Check the screws holding the coupler pocket together. If they're too tight, the coupler will bind in the pocket. Are they moving side to side? If not that's a good indication the screws are too tight.

Did you read and follow the instructions provided with the couplers? Their website has the instructions as well as tips and a FAQ section.

Matt

A properly installed Kadee set on both item being coupled needs very little "force" to couple up. Make sure the facing Knuckles are smooth and that the knuckles easily move.

Just finished installing Kadee couplers on three of GNNPNUT's Red Caboose, NP reefers, and thought of another question:

You hopefully didn't install the large spring into the area on the side of the knuckle, did you? Only the smaller, "little spring" is for the side of the coupler knuckle. The big (larger diameter) spring goes inside the coupler box.

i did paint them...oops! after rubbing the paint off they are better....doh!!!

quote:

Originally posted by willbacker45:
i did paint them...oops! after rubbing the paint off they are better....doh!!!

I did a similar oops. The face of the couplers need to be smoth as the top of my bald head.

I use a Sharpie on them to clean up coloration. I usually Sharpie the axles and other shiny bits, too.

Mike

Ugh, now you tell me about those screws.

I am dealing with a plastic box type long shank with a pair of screws underneath.

I hope they will go onto the MTH Pad well, if not? I guess I will be buying plastic rod to rivet.