My newest engine, also getting my first coupler conversion ever.

[Officer LOT 737-300]

Hey guys,
Back on January 9th, 2009 I was the Central Florida Rail show, while there I picked up this beautiful Atlas GP40 in the colors of L&N for $35 bucks. The thing runs pretty well, but while also at the show, I noticed something else, Rapido couplers (which all of my fleet had installed at the time, including my newest member) had basically become extinct in favor for spring knuckle couplers, like the McHenrys, Atlas Accumate and the Microtrain couplers. So on Friday I drove to Colonial Photo hobby to see how much a kit to convert it would cost, and was shocked that it cost no more than it did online (but cheaper due to no shipping charge, just FL/Orange County sales taxes added to it.) Anyways, on Satuday, when I got the chance, I converted the couplers (building that thing HAS to be on of the largest PITAs on earth due to putting in that tiny ass spring!) Anyways, here are some photos:

Still operating on Rapidos right after I got her:

Getting ready for her conversion, removed her shell from her motor unit, you can see the old Rapido assembly off to the left side next to the Magnifying Glass.:

Got both couplers on now, time to put her back on the motor unit!:

Done, and it looks great! Trip Pin (that curvy piece under the main coupler assembly for those less familiar with the terms) was still hanging down a bit low, but nothing that some careful work with a pair of pliers can't fix!


Now to try converting the rest of my N Scale railflota! Those Bachmann F9As are going to be a major PITA I tell you! As will those ROWA passenger cars due to not having a truck set that could fit in there without too much issue!