Rolling Stock

Coupler

The mechanism that connects railroad cars together.

Full Definition

Couplers connect rolling stock together, allowing trains to be assembled and operated. Most North American models use knuckle couplers (copying the prototype). Kadee (now Kadee/McHenry) established the standard for HO scale. Proper coupler height is critical for reliable operation - use a coupler height gauge.

Examples

•Kadee #5 is the standard HO scale coupler against which others are judged

Tips & Best Practices

Keep coupler trip pins at the proper height to prevent uncoupling on track irregularities

Have Questions?

Ask our AI assistant for more details about Coupler or related topics.

More Rolling Stock Terms

Quick Links

Learning Center Shop Products Comparisons