HOW TO… IMPROVE N GAUGE COUPLINGS

For all the advances in the level of realism exhibited by RTR N gauge rolling stock, an aspect that hasn’t evolved is the appearance and functionality of couplings.

There are alternatives available, which look better and allow you to remotely uncouple rolling stock. This is particularly important for those that have built micro or cameo layouts that rely on shunting for operational interest, and similarly, for those that want to present their layouts in the best light while minimising the ‘hand of God’ effect.

I’ll share a simple way of improving the appearance of couplings, and look at an alternative approach, which requires basic fabrication and soldering. However, both methods will result in more capable coupling and realism.

Better looks

If you’re looking for an improvement in appearance and not looking to have a shunting capability, a simple to fit alternative is the magnetic coupling. These are available from a number of sources including West Hill Wagon Works, which currently sells a useful