While in the ‘get them out of the box and running’ mode, I decided to get my Bachmann Spectrum 4-4-0 and 2-6-0 running and need to convert the couplers to Kadees. I have checked the Kadee site and not happy with their proposed conversion approach. Has anyone converted either of these locos (the tenders are identical) to Kadee couplers?
I’ve converted serveral of Bachmann’s annies (4-6-0’s) and just used the standard Gauge 1 couplers on the tenders, and the straight shank one in the coupler pocket on the front.
When I get home, I’ll look for some photos. Send an email addrss to me and I’ll send a couple of pix.
Having been badly flamed elsewhere, I’m quick to add that while this worked for me, and I’m satisfied with the results, I’m suggesting it might work for you.
Bill;
Neither one of those locos, are readily adapted to a coupler on the pilot, due to the type of pilot they have.
You probably could build a new pilot, by adapting one from another locomotive of some sort, but this would involve using skills that you may not have.
As far as the tender is concerned, there are several ways to convert it. First, by calling Kadee on the telephone, and speaking with “Sam”. He is great at finding solutions for questions like yours.
Second, if you care to do some work; you can always build up a coupler pad on the rear of the tender, using Styrene material, and body mount the Kadee coupler on it.
The other problem you may have on the pilot, is the swing of that long wheelbase locomotive. any coupler you mount there will give problems on tight radius curves of less than 10 feet.
In the time of those locos (Prototype) they used link and pin couplers, and connected the pilot using a draw-bar, as modeled on the existing pilot. When they were first converted to knuckle couplers, they often had a slot and pin in the knuckle of the couplers to accept links and pins, and the draw-bar on the pilots.
Dick;
The B’mann 4-6-0’s…whether it is an “Anniversery” or a Big Hauler, both can be converted using the Kadee conversion set. The set has a proper mount for the pilot, and a truck mounted coupler for the tender. Unless you are running on rather tight curves of under 5 foot radius, it is preferable to body mount the couplers on the tender. But, to each his own, and whatever works for you…
The 4-6-0’s are much different from the Spectrum 2-6-0, and 4-4-0 when it comes to Kadee conversions.