Not Really sure what exactly that I need.

https://www.lionelsupport.com/...F-3-AA-PASSENGER-SET

The topside of the rear truck so that we know what we need and are looking at.

This bracket is what is missing from your picture that would hold the coupler

But this missing bracket you need is out of stock. I also searched for alternates.

But they do have the coupler

https://www.lionelsupport.com/...WORKING-PWC-TYPE-F-3

The other thing you are missing is the coupler centering spring

Out of stock, but this style might work from the "scale" version https://www.lionelsupport.com/...ENTERING-SCALE-TRUCK

So given that so many parts were out of stock, some searching led me to this.

https://www.lionelsupport.com/...-3-A-PWC-REAR-SILVER

I think you buy this part, and you remove the coupler bracket, spring, and knuckle, and you have the parts you need to insert into your truck

Again, this search since your truck specific to that loco is not in stock, the missing bracket is not in stock by itself, you can buy the coupler but not the spring, to me the above is a viable option.

This search, there was very limited trucks in stock https://www.lionelsupport.com/...2FSENSOR%20%2F%20F-3

Also keep in mind, the Lionel 1/2 off parts sale is very soon starting the 23rd-25th.

Following is the Lionel parts list for this unit.  Unless you have some of these parts, there is a problem.  You need parts #12, #5 and #38.  Part #48, the spring is somewhat optional.  The big problem is that #5 is not available and, without it, you will not have any lower support.

Maybe sone else has a work-around or knows where you might find that part?

https://www.lionelsupport.com/...POWERED-5524-6-38193

BTW, this related topic shows some close ups and details of how the bracket pokes through the top plate with tabs that get "staked" or bent over so they cannot pull through.

https://ogrforum.com/...9#163320812344362569

Again, given so much of the individual parts were out of stock as even others tried to look and help, one way is to buy and assembly of the parts you need, and then remove the parts you need.

https://www.lionelsupport.com/...-3-A-PWC-REAR-SILVER

I think you buy this part, and you remove the coupler bracket, spring, and knuckle, and you have the parts you need to insert into your truck

Again, this contains the bracket, the coupler knuckle, the spring- all the pieces you need. And in a very short time, would be $7 not $14. Now granted, a parts order from Lionel is about $10 in shipping, but you need this part at the right time near the sale- so I would take advantage of that.

Since that rear coupler on an F3 is non-operating, I really don't think I'd lose any sleep over finding a centering spring.  If the unit was standing on a ready-track in the locomotive terminal, and the coupler was flopped to one side, it would probably drive Monk crazy...but not me.

The coupler casting itself?  Jeff at The Train Tender has had them.

Re the bracket?  That's going to be the toughie.  But I have this engine, too.  Looking at the bracket, it wouldn't be that hard to fabricate a facsimile from sheet brass.  In fact it would be sort of a fun diversion.  But that's just me...easily 'Tootled' off life's daily track, pickin' daisies!

The other choice is to go to York, and look through the this-and-that tables of miscellany (some call it 'junk')...often under the tables, too!...for that F3 truck with the parts attached...yet removable.  And, judging by your exhibit, they appear to be easily removable!!

Then, there's that auction site...Like auction 195346366946...which has possibilities, maybe.

FWIW...

KD

Thanks Vernon and Dan for your great support, I'll see if I can rustle up the parts and see if I can get it fixed, if not I guess it will become a Shelf Queen.

OOPS, KD I forgot to mention you also, thanks for the reply and suggestions, I really appreciate it, I apologize for leaving you out, guess I need to proof read better in the future.

Reminds me of the old saying that when the ashtray is full it's time to get a new car.

Gerry

Last year I had an F3 from the same time frame that also was missing the coupler and bracket.  I was fortunate to find what I needed from a guy who sells parts that set up in the orange hall in the front section very close to where you enter the hall to the left of the snack bar.  I do not remember his name but he had a full isle length display and he was very helpful.

Good luck in your search,

Don