I have a Stewart F unit moter it missing the front coupler thingy.What is it called and where might i get one
Mike
You probably need to look up Kadee couplers on the internet and they will likely tell you exactly what coupler you need. I don't know that engine, but from my old Athearns I would assume you might need a draft gear box (coupler pocket) to mount it.
It's generally an easy job, and as a model railroader you might as well get used to doing things like this.
If you have a decent train shop, they probably have these on a rack somewhere. For a front coupler you probably need one with an extra long shank to clear the front pilot.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
Kadee makes a coupler kit for Stewart F units and it allows close coupling between the A and B units or between B units as well. I was able to use a standard KD#5 in the front without using an extra long shank Kadee.
The Kadee #450 kit provides coupler boxes which allow mounting the coupler in one of two positions, so that overcomes any need for an long shank coupler.
Rio Grande. The Action Road - Focus 1977-1983
Mike,
The Stewart F unit I purchased in the early 90s came with 'horn-hook' couplers. Instruction sheet identifies the part that holds the coupler in place, front and back as: Part# 13 - Coupler Retainer
The aforementioned Kadee coupler kit works and looks good. If wanting the original coupler set-up and the forum's PM feature still worked I'd be happy to send you the OEM retainer N/C.
Regards, Peter
Ebay had what I was looking for. Thanks