Couplers
Unlike weights, the cou-
pler treatment differs
depending on the role
of the car.
Through hopper trains
operate essentially
as unit trains on the
layout. They move in
solid blocks and never
need to be uncoupled,
reversed, or switched.
These cars are almost
all equipped with non-
operating knuckle cou-
plers. Several coupler
varieties are used, depending on the model.
Most of the four-bay hoppers on the railroad are Bowser PRR
H21 hoppers. These were originally offered with Rapido cou-
plers, and of course, I bought a bunch just as soon as I could, all
with these non-scale couplers. Fortunately, AccuMate offered
a reliable T-shank knuckle replacement, now sold by Red
Caboose. These fit perfectly in the Bowser coupler pocket and
are an easy change.
Additional three-bay and four-bay hoppers from other Eastern
roads including C&O, B&O, and NYC are available from Athearn,
Atlas, Bluford Shops and others. A few of these break up the
monotony of the PRR hopper blocks. They are all equipped
with Micro-Trains trucks/couplers and low profile wheel sets.
Comme-N-tary Column - 3
3
3: AccuMate (Red Caboose) T-
shank couplers fit easily into the
Bowser trucks.
MRH-Jun 2013
