PE Elf work train 0-6-0 coupler issue

Beflorin,

    If the coupler is not swinging from side to side freely try to loosen the screw that holds it on, Try turning it to the left a quarter turn. Perhaps a little oil would help. Does the coupler open?

JohnB

I'll try backing out that screw a quarter tonight.  The coupler will open if I flip the plate down around that same screw.   Lionchief app shows the rear coupler, front is grayed out....the coupler button doesn't do anything though.   Are you supposed to be able to open the coupler anywhere or only over a special track section?

@bflorin posted:

The coupler will open if I flip the plate down around that same screw.     Are you supposed to be able to open the coupler anywhere or only over a special track section?

That plate is to operate the coupler over an uncoupling track.

When activated.The magnet in the uncoupling track draws the plate down opening the coupler.

The Elf train set's 0-6-0T is the Lionchief version - which would not have electrocouplers on the front and back, but would work over the operating/uncoupling track.  Lionel also offered the 0-6-0T in LC+ 2.0 - which advertised having both ends with electrocouplers which would open anywhere via the remote/app, but I haven't seen any reports of those showing up on anyone's doorstep yet.

You might also try adding weight to those elf cars which may help your problem.

The problem is this grove.  Its snagging the pin where the paint is missing.  It needs to be filed smoith.   Backing out the screw to this did not make its movement any easier.

If you didn't solve this already I would scrape off the paint in V recess and oil that area.

You could also remove the spring entirely or cut a coil or 2 off to reduce the spring pressure.

The coupler looks to be the same as used in the past, maybe Lionel can send you another?

Unfortunate to have to tinker with something brand new  but I generally think I can fix something faster then the the time involved to send something  back.

Bflorin,

   I do not have a 0-6-0T engine so these are just my thoughts based on the pictures you supplied. Can you turn the pin with the two tabs so that the tabs sit inside the V. It would seem that this would release some of the pressure on the spring whose tension is preventing the coupler from swinging properly. Again this is just my guess but based on the pictures it sure looks like the tabs should sit within the V on the coupler end.

JohnB

@bflorin posted:

My set showed up today, everything looks great.  Only issue is the rear coupler is pretty much locked straight.  It will move to both limits, but the force it takes is way too much for any connected cars....and derails them.   Is there any adjustment in this?

BTW, awesome looking set!

I like the DIY approach but I'd send it back.

Lionels engineers learn nothing when not addressing a design issue.