Yes, many have replaced the dummy coupler with a working one. I am not one of them but sign up over at Large Scale Central and post your question over in the problem solving section - http://www.largescalecentral.com/LSCForums/viewforum.php?id=29
Lots of ten wheeler experts over there.
-Brian
I purchased one also a bit ago and intend to install a working coupler in the front and a body mount to the tender. It would be easyiest to use kadee kits but I am attempting to keep the backmann knuckel couplers. This project is on hold for a few weeks atm but I will post once i get it.
I have the 81097 Bachmann Tenwheeler (same as the D&RGW Bumblebee version) and converted the pilot coupler to a Kadee 1791 #1 coupler. Coupler fits and operates just fine. You could also use the Kadee 791 ("G" scale) coupler as well.
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