All,
I'm checking to see if someone has successfully converted a Bachmann GG1 to Micro-Trains couplers. I attempted to do so today, but am unable to get the coupler to move freely even though there is plenty of clearance. Here's what I did, and I apologize for the sub-par smartphone pics.
The front pilot truck must be removed along with the existing coupler and coupler box lid. Trying to do the work with the pilot truck in place raised the level on the frustration meter to 11.
The existing pocket has a suitable cavity for the MTL centering pin, so there was no need to modify the existing pocket.
The lid from MTL #2004 must be modified to match the width of the original Bachmann lid. I first started with a #1015 lid but it was too thick for the existing pilot slots.
A #1015 coupler was assembled and inserted into the pilot from the front, without the centering spring. A small clamp was needed to temporarily hold it to the pilot deck.
The modified #2004 lid is inserted from the back and secured with the original screw.
I inserted the centering spring from the front with a #11 blade. There is enough material to keep the spring in place after it decompressed.
Everything appears to be fine, there is plenty of leeway for the coupler to move left/right and slightly up/down. The uncoupling bar is down in this pic, which does restrict movement. But even with the uncoupling bar raised, the coupler does not re-center.
I guess some positive news is that an AccuMate will fit inside the pocket without any modifications needed, which itself is a significant improvement over the boxing gloves.
