Coupler Height Adjustment

The problem of different coupler heights between cars of different scales (1:20.3, 1:22.5, 1:24, 1:29, and 1:32) / manufacturers (Aristo, LGB, Bachmann, USA) is one that has existed since the conception of large scale railroading. This problem can be resolved in a number of ways.

1. Change to one style truck and coupler on all cars. This is undoubtedly the easiest and fastest way to solve this problem. It is also the most expensive.

2. Shimming is the other alternative. By placing a plastic shim between the coupler and the bolster tongue, you can raise the lower coupler to match the one you feel the most comfortable with.

3. Kadee makes a body mounted coupler which will fit on anyone's rolling stock. To achieve this, first you must decide on a specific truck and live with that choice. Secondly, you must cut the tongue off the truck you have selected, and thirdly you will have to modify the car body to accept the coupler housing. The advantages of this mode of operation will be the most realistic looking train, everything at the same height, and much less space between cars. The disadvantages of this are as follows, cost for all the new trucks and couplers, and if you ever decide to sell the car, you will have to rebuild it. Last but not least, you won't be able to operate on small diameter curves and switches.