Guess I'm living in "coupler hell" these days. Got the GGD uncoupling problem figured out, and now the MTH baggage car won't stay coupled. It has the sliding tab type of coupler, is there a way to fix these or is it another call to Midge time? Leaving the train behind at random spots while the locomotive merrily goes it's own way isn't making for a fun session.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
I usually use a small black ziptie to keep problematic couplers closed.
Lehigh Valley Railroad posted:I usually use a small black ziptie to keep problematic couplers closed.
I agree, best fix in the book.
These MTH couplers are not the pin type, they have the sliding bar which is activated by the metal pad under the truck, which pulls the slide back, opening the coupler. Don't see how a tie wrap would help these ... the pin type, yes .. it would keep it closed. With the slide, the tie just slides allowing it to open.
KERRIGAN,
Is there a spring of any type with this coupler assembly. If there is, maybe removing the spring and stretching it may put more tension on the slide pin.
"These MTH couplers are not the pin type, they have the sliding bar which is activated by the metal pad under the truck, which pulls the slide back, opening the coupler. Don't see how a tie wrap would help these ... the pin type, yes .. it would keep it closed. With the slide, the tie just slides allowing it to open."
KERRIGAN,I have the exact same problem with MTH and Lionel.Wire ties is the only thing that has worked for me.Very frustrating.Nick
jim sutter posted:KERRIGAN,
Is there a spring of any type with this coupler assembly. If there is, maybe removing the spring and stretching it may put more tension on the slide pin.
Good idea, if I can get it apart. I do have a lot of springs ... I could try one stronger ... have to dig into it .. put it on the long long to-do list.
The MTH couplers can be a real pain. I used tie wrap, rubber bands and even a thinly cut strip of black tape to fix them closed. I even ordered new parts and still had a few problems.
How about a little supper glue on the locking pin? Then you can forget about ever opening them again.
With all the wonderful technology the manufactures brought us it would really be nice if they could come up with a coupler that works. 
This subject came up last month or so. Plastic zip ties. They come in various sizes.
craft stores ie michaels or hobby lobby have really small black rubber bands that work well & are invisible
Dental rubber bands from Amazon work great .
Still overlooking that this is in regard to the newer T-bar couplers, I see 
A stronger spring is still in the running as the likely remedy.
---PCJ
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
