I have several HO scale Stewart/Bowser F7s purchased secondhand, and now that my layout is running I've noticed the couplers are too high compared to my Kadee coupler gauge and cars that I know have proper coupler height. After looking the units over I don't see any (easy?) way to reduce the height to match the gauge. Is there a way to do this? I have replaced the original couplers with Kadee. Thanks!
Here's what the Kadee website says about the engine...
https://www.kadee.com/hocc_stewart
Hope this helps...
Neal
Hello All,
Nick79MII have replaced the original couplers with Kadee.
Which coupler did you use?
Did you include the adapter for this conversion?
If the coupler is still too high, use an "overset shank" coupler.
This will lower the knuckle of the coupler.
Hope this helps.
"Uhh...I didn’t know it was 'impossible' I just made it work...sorry"
I used the Kadee #450 kit on all my Stewart/Kato F units, and the coupler height is perfect on them.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
Thank you, all, I will take a look at the KAdee 450 kit.
Nick79MIThank you, all, I will take a look at the KAdee 450 kit.
Note:
The #450 kit comes with a 30 series coupler. The 30 series can be installed with either the thick or thin side of the coupler box upward. This allows minor couper height adjustment.
Follow the instructions carefully or the height will be a little off.
I appreciate this thread.
I was not aware of the coupler issue with the older Stewart F7's. According to the info, I should go with the #450 kit. I would actually prefer a "whisker" type of coupler. But if that's not an option, I'll go with the recommendation.
I bought the Steward NYC F7 below, new, back in the 90's and only test ran it once. Being that it still runs very smoothly, I plan on updating it with DCC-sound.
FWIW: At the time I bought this F7, my interest was in the New York Central. However, not long afterwards I switched my primary focus to the ACL and SCL. I was going to strip & repaint this unit, but have decided to keep it as is and use it as a "foreign power" visitor.
"I like my Pullman Standards & Budds in Stainless Steel flavors, thank you!"