OK, so I've managed to build up what 'G' scale rolling stock I need, ready to be repainted into FCC (Ferrocarril Central del Peru) colours, and assorted grime, but having bought the stuff from a well known auction house I find myself confronted with a variety of different couplers, Bachmann knuckle, LGB hook and loop, and Aristocraft on the Locomotives. Most of the rolling stock is Bachmann, some has been fitted with LGB type couplings. Bachmann and Aristo don't seem to be compatible, and run at different ride heights. What would anyone's suggestion be as to a 'standard' coupling to fit to all, and can I find a dropped coupling for the locos or do I need a raised shank on the end of a rake to couple stock to motive power. Bearing in mind that this is going to all be 'American' pattern or American derived stock, then knuckle couplers are appropriate, but there is also a reastaint on what might be available in the UK, or sourced at a reasonable price from elsewhere, taking into account the licensed bandits called the UK Customs and Excise! Alec
Kevin Strong at GR Mag has tried top inform on this, sometimes tries to re-write history. Bottom line is, Bachmann, Delton, USA, Aristo Classic, Lionel and LGB with Lionel couplers screwed on are all the same height and couple together. 1:29 Aristo couples to nothing else. Kadee is much higher, usually just misses other couplers. I have about 125 pieces of various rolling stock, using Bachmann, Lionel and Delton couplers I like the way we can lift the pin to uncouple. Hook and loops are for those who never, ever want and undesired uncoupling. Sort of like Mantua couplers on H0. Make sense? Dave
