Hi Michael
I might be able to help. I have an Atlas GP40-2 from about the time and I believe it is set up just like yours. If can just push out by pushing back on the metal spring with a small standard screwdriver and then use the screwdriver blade to lift off the clip, the Rapido coupler will pull right out the front. Then using already assembled Micro-Trains 1016-1 medium shank as Brakie suggested, or even the 1015-1 short shank (but it's best to check the Micro-Trains conversion chart on their wedsite just to make sure as Zstripe suggested) the already assembled coupler box should slide in through the front of the pilot. Then all you have to do is replace the plastic t-clip with the peg in the center lined up and put into the center hole of the coupler box, then just push the clip back down into place and your done. The metal spring will not be needed anymore.
You can Google this for Youtube: "Changing out couplers on Kato N scale locomotives" and see how it's done because they are same as the Kato on early Atlas locomotives with the Rapido couplers (at least mine is). Hope this helps.
Ralph
When I was in N Scale I used the 1016 assembled medium shank coupler with a .0090 screw on my Atlas locomotives. The 1016s is a univeral coupler that comes in short,medium and long shank.
Larry
Conductor.
Summerset Ry.
"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt Safety First!"
Michael,
Take a look for Your engines/cars, in the Micro-Trains coupler conversions. You should be able to find what You need........
https://www.micro-trains.com/index.php?route=information/information&information_id=10
To The Forums.
Take Care!
Frank
Hi everybody. I'm trying to find a source for replacement knuckle couplers for Atlas N diesels. I have 2 slightly older (90s) GP30s with Rapido couplers and a newer Atlas geep that came with knuckle couplers. Both types have the t-shaped shank that mounts on the body with the tiny metal spring bar. I want to replace the Rapido couplers on the 2 older geeps and have no idea where the drop-in knuckle couplers can be found. Any suggestions?