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Kadee Couplers Guide
Sep 26, 2002
By Jon C.A. DeKeles |
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Learn about the difference between #1 and G couplers.
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One of the questions we have received is about the difference between the Kadee Coupler #1 Scale and G Scale coupler. The fast answer? --- Size.
Kadee offers two "scale" sizes to choose. Even though they are different sizes they both represent the standard Type "E" 12 inch knuckle coupler.
According to Kadee:
Click for larger picture
(c) 2002 Kadee
| The #1 scale couplers are 1:32 scale and are designed to be mounted at current NMRA Standard "S-1" coupler height of 1 1/16" (27mm) above the rail. This is measured from the top of the rail to the "center" of the coupler. |
Click for larger picture
(c) 2002 Kadee
| The "G" scale couplers are 1:24 scale and are designed to be mounted at 1 1/8" (1.125") above the rail. This is just slightly higher than the G scale "narrow gauge coupler height of 1 5/64" above the rail. The way Kadee determines this is based on narrow gauge being of standard gauge. The standard G scale coupler height is 1 7/26" (1.4375".) Divide this by (or x .75) equals 1.078" |
Since "large scale" covers several different "scale proportions ranging through but not limited to 1:32, 1:29, 1:24, 1:22.6, 1:22.5 and 1:20.3 rations that particular choice of coupler size is up to the modeler. There are many who like the small #1 scale coupler for the more to scale "appearance" (these are also used mostly on the 1/32 and 1/29 scale models). There are many that use the larger G scale couplers because it has a larger pulling space for use on rougher track, like that on outdoor layouts that are exposed to weather and temperature variations (these are used mostly on the 1/24 and larger scale models).
Kadee has a very complete listing of recommended coupler options using #1 or G scale couplers. Many of the these couplers are molded to compensate for the difference in the coupler height between the #1 and G scale couplers.
Bill says:
Advantages: - more reliable
- closer to scale size (either G or 1:32, et. al.)
- more rugged
- can be used (as in HO and other scales) for remote uncoupling using magnetic ramps
- easily allows body mounted couplers
Disadvantages: - cost
- the steel (air hose) part will rust -- does not affect operation
- more critical the coupler be centered on the car for coupling
- hand uncoupling can be tricky, although a screwdriver blade works quite easily
(personally, I have 100% Kadees on all HO, S, O & G equipment)
Jerry says:
Thanks to all who responded to my question about Kadee 820s vs 830s. I have decided to stay with the 830s as they appear to have the best performance in the garden environment.
Ed says:
I've been gradually converting most of my American-prototype rolling stock to Kadee 830-series couplers. Where there's room, I use the 830's. The only complaint I have about them is the "stretching out" of heavy trains, and the bunching of slack on downgrades. (Real trains do this, I know, but it can create problems there, too.)
Jerry says:
Another method that most people use is to make a converter car. This has a Kadee on one end with the existing coupler on the other end. All other cars can be converted as time, money, energy, and desire is available.
Larry says:
Once you get past the cost of doing the conversion, there are no "cons" to Kadees, only "pros". If you like to shuffle cars in the yard, "kick" cars or try the "flying switch" manuver then Kadees do it better than anything else. I converted my stuff ten years ago. No regrets.
| Informative Article |
| Good concise recap of Kadee couplers |
| Jon D. Miller - 08/21/2007 - 05:25 |
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