Kadee invented the magnetic knuckle coupler way back when, late 1950's. The Kadee patents finally expired in the 1990's and everyone started making their own clones of the Kadee coupler to avoid having to pay Kadee for the real thing. Most of the clones, at least those with a metal coil spring on the knuckle are OK, they mate with Kadees and uncouple with Kadee magnetic ramps. I only replace them when they break or fail to stay coupled, or mess up in other ways. Right now, hobby shops carry genuine Kadees and some clone couplers as replacements. Since they charge the same for clones and the genuine article, I always buy the Kadees rather than the clones.
David Starr www.newsnorthwoods.blogspot.com
David,If a #5 and Walthers Protomax coupler was laying side by side it would be impossible to tell them apart. No need to toss those Protomax like those cheap plastic knockoffs.
Here's why.
Tough Die Cast Head & Shank * Fits Most HO Equipment * Couplers Fully Assembled - Ready to Install * Separate Metal Centering Spring * Separate Plastic Draft Gear Box (some assembly required) * Realistic Appearance * Magnetic Uncoupling Action * Fits most HO Freight & Passenger Cars
---------------------------------------------------
Its good we have a choice of couplers.
Larry
Conductor.
Summerset Ry.
"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt Safety First!"
BRAKIE,If a #5 and Walthers Protomax coupler was laying side by side it would be impossible to tell them apart
Larry,
The protomax couplers have a very slight shiny black appearance compared to the original Kadee, which have a slight shiny graphite color appearance. Almost impossible to tell, and they function the same.
Andrew