Today I swapped the standard Kato coupler on both an SD80 and Dash-9 with MTL 2004s. Easy work but the coupler sticks out further than the included coupler. Is there another MTL I can try on the next conversion that will give me a closer fit? Thanks in advance, Shawn
From the M-TL website: "For tighter radius layouts, the 2001 (001 02 050) long shank coupler can be used." Thus the 2004 is the recommended short shank option. Possibly some have experimented and found others that work. If so they will surely post soon.
I too wish MT would come out with a closer coupling coupler for certain Kato units - especially the SD40-2. The Kato coupler gives a more realistic "gap" between units.
Why not use the coupler Kato supplies? I've had no problems with it. Of course it does not always couple automatically. Then again, neither does the prototype.
I don't mind the Kato couplers, they have worked well for me pulling long coal drags. For these two units acquired used, one had rapidos and the other a crushed front coupler. No choice but to buy new couplers. So I figure as needed I'll go with the 2004s but do prefer the closer "gap" when using Kato's coupler. Shawn
George's comment about using the kato coupler is something that I may switch back to as I keep having problems with coupler heights with the MT and certain newer kato locos. (and they don't have a lot of clearance in the coupler pocket to shim it either) Brian
