Converting Bachmann GE44 from McHenrys to Micro Train Couplers

[Ogden Rails]

I am converting couplers on a friend's Bachmann GE44 from McHenrys to Micro Trains.

MT conversion chart recommends a type 001.02 052 (2004-1).  Only the type 001 02 052 (2004) was in stock at my LHS, but I understand the 2004 is just the non assembled version of the 2004-1 and otherwise are identical.

MT do note that there will be a need to file some of the coupler pocket to allow the draft gear box to fit.

I have filed the pocket sides so the coupler fits width wise. However, to avoid the trucks touching the rear of the draft box, it appears that the pocket depth needs to be increased to such an extent that the screw post for the McHenry coupler also has to be removed. This means there is little material left below the front walkway to drill and tap for the MT screw.

I realize that the trucks may only swivel a small amount, and very small clearances may suffice, but am concerned too much material has to be removed to fit the coupler.

I also tried a Z scale body mount coupler removed from a 800 00 050 box car. However, the length of the draft gear box on this coupler is slightly longer than the 2004, and also interferes with the front of the trucks when they swivel.

I would appreciate guidance from any member who has done this MT conversion?

Thanks.

John Colliver
Australia

[bbussey]

@Chris333 - haven't you converted 44 Tonners to NTL couplers?

[SP-Wolf]

I converted mine by cutting the coupler pocket off of Micro Trains light weight passenger trucks(The kind with the adjustable pocket). And, gluing them in place. (I sued a UV glue). I forget what fellow modeler cam up with the idea - it certainly wasn't mine. But, it works great.

Thanks,
Wolf

[peteski]

First of all, if Bachmann knew you called their coupler McHenry, they woudl probablyu sue you.    I it is Bachmann's own design, even larger and uglier than McHenry.  We call it "the Boxing Glove" here on TRW. It is totally useless.

I posted my conversion info here 3 years ago, but I guess it is not an easy to search subject. 

My conversion is a bit difficult (you have to do some precision drilling), but the result is a perfectly working MTL coupler. This is the tread: https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=32605

[Chris333]

I just used Z scale 905's in the stock mounting hole. Cut the back of the box off:
https://goo.gl/photos/zx6hkkjCcbJ4rySi9
https://goo.gl/photos/usDrw7oiE5D6VxcQ7
https://goo.gl/photos/zHbcKxpiexYb9JeF8

[coosvalley]

I just used Z scale 905's in the stock mounting hole. Cut the back of the box off:
https://goo.gl/photos/zx6hkkjCcbJ4rySi9
https://goo.gl/photos/usDrw7oiE5D6VxcQ7
https://goo.gl/photos/zHbcKxpiexYb9JeF8

I just did this as well, you have to cut the original coupler mounting post down as well, but it's quick and easy with an X-acto..some of this post will still be left behind, and I screwed the new coupler into that.

[altohorn25]

I just did this as well, you have to cut the original coupler mounting post down as well, but it's quick and easy with an X-acto..some of this post will still be left behind, and I screwed the new coupler into that.

I did the same as these two guys.  The z scale 905 looks much better as well.  Very easy installation.

Nate

[OldEastRR]

Next step: opening up the gunslits into real windows.

[Ogden Rails]

Thanks to all for your suggestions re this conversion.

John Colliver
Australia