Scale "dummy" coupler for Sunset FP-7

Well I didn't use a dummy coupler, but the Kadee 740's work just fine on my 072 curves. I too got the 3 rail FP7s, and the coupler brackets to mount Kadees. I ordered the 2 rail pilots the other day, but they will have no affect on 072 curves with Kadee couplers.

 

I did drill new holes in the mounting brackets to pull the couplers in further than the stock holes so that my ABA set is as close together as possible, and still make the 072 curves.

This is the "stock" gap when using the factory Kadee brackets with the holes as drilled by the factory.

 

 

I have modified those brackets so mine are MUCH closer together now. I'll get some pictures tomorrow so you can see the difference.

 

I hope your coupler brackets were installed for you, because if not, the bracket for the rear of the A unit has to be modified to fit on the frame. Nothing a bench grinder won't fix, but it won't just screw on out of the bag... unless of course I just got the wrong bracket. I made it work anyway.

Sorry for any confusion... Actually I have a single 'A' unit and i'm going to leave the tinplate coupler on the rear.  The scale (or 2-rail) coupler is a cosmetic thing for the front of the loco only.

 

I also noticed two brackets in the box, not really sure what they are for.  The loco is presently equipped with 3-rail "lobster claws" front & rear.

Thanks,

ted

Yes those brackets in the box are for mounting the scale coupler front and rear. If you are leaving the lobster claw on the rear, then you'll have a bracket left over.

 

You'll have to remove the lobster claw from the front. 2 screws hold that lobster claw bracket on, and then unplug the wire harness for the electro coupler.

 

In order to screw the scale coupler bracket on, you'll have to remove the bracket that holds the electro coupler plug on. 2 very tiny screws...and they can be removed without taking anything else apart, but you need a very small screw driver. If you do NOT remove that bracket that holds the electro coupler plug, the truck will not pivot.

 

You can leave that electro coupler plug and wires there, just put it in the space under the scale coupler bracket when you install that The screws are included with the bracket.

 

None of this makes sense until you flip the unit upside down and look at what needs to be done. It's a bit of work, but easy to do. I'd buy a Kadee 740 coupler and it will screw right onto that bracket that's in the box, with the tiny screws provided in the bag.

 

If you need some pictures of exactly what I'm talking about, just let me know. 

I would spring for a fully functional Protocraft coupler.  Expensive, but it is the real thing, and you are only buying one.

That's an excellent idea Bob  I'm gonna look into getting one for my lead A unit. 

My FP-7 should be here tomorrow or Tuesday, can't wait. I didn't realize I could get a 2-rail front pilot. I want one of them. How do I order one of those and about how much?

Just call or email Sunset/3rd rail. They are attached with 2 small screws. They are around $20 each.

Laidoffsick -

I for one would like to see the picture of your black widows after you modified the mounting bracket to close the gap.

Thanks.

They still negotiate 072 curves. These things run so smooth together, even with 1 forward and 1 backwards. I have to say they are the best running engines I own, especially with multiple powered units in a consist.

Thank you.  They look soooooo much better.  

 

 

Jim