Coupler Test Track

September 23, 2003

One of the biggest problems a model railroader can have is couplers that cause a car to derail or not couple correctly. Where you use the Kadee or McHenry couplers here is a very inexpensive tool you should not be without. A coupler test track.

It's not too pretty but it does the job.

The set up is easy. Take the roadbed as is, you don't need to split it. Just lay down the roadbed with white glue. You will want to trim the edges. While the glue is setting up, about 2/3 of the way down cut out a section of roadbed for the uncoupler magnet and the metal plate down.

Here, you can see the uncoupler installed. The reason for the uncoupler is even if you have the height set up the coupler can still give you trouble if it does not return to the center position. With the under track uncoupler, you can check its swing without having to worry if you have not adjusted the air hose yet.

Next lay down the track. At the end closest to the uncoupler and using white glue, glue the coupler
height gauge.

Here, I suggest you cut one of the rails. This way you can use the track to clean engine wheels or
use the track to test coupling and uncoupling cars.
Once done, follow the instructions on the gauge packaging and you can eliminate everything from air hoses catching on frogs to couplers too high or too low.

One of the great parts to this is the cost. Less than $15.

3' piece of 1X2 $1
Roadbed $ 1.50
Kadee under track uncoupler, Walthers part number 380-308 $4
Kadee coupler height gauge, Walthers part number 380-205 $4