Simple 3 link coupling tool.

Discussion in 'Hints & Tips' started by jakesdad13, Jul 12, 2020.

  1. jakesdad13

    jakesdad13 Staff Member Moderator

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    I was in a conversation on a Facebook O gauge page tother day when a lad asked for advise on how to work with 3 link coupling. Most of the replies went along the line of " go for Kaydees, Spratt and Winkles" etc etc. Anyway it set me off thinking, I'd seen a simple home made tool some operators were using on an O gauge layout at an exhibition. They were simple, looked a bit like a key and most importantly, they worked! No magnets, no fumbling in the dark between two vehicles no torch needed. I was sold, I needed to make one for myself! And like a lot off things I get exited about, nothing happened, until today.
    I present to you, the Jakesdad 3 link uncoupler!



    The paddle is approx 12mm x 15mm x 1.5mm. The handle approx 120mm (I didn't measure owt) And took me about 60 to 70 minutes to make, most of that time cutting the parts and the slot with a well past its best junior hacksaw.

    I made this for my O gauge, but I don't see why it couldn't be adapted for 00 for the masochistic amongst the membership.


    Cheers, Pete.
     
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  2. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Simple but effective. :thumbs:
     
  3. York Paul

    York Paul Staff Member Moderator

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    Excellent invention Pete... the simple way is always the best IMHO... I guess this would also work with screw couplings too and with an added rib fitted at the base of the slot would prevent the end link of a screw coupling spinning around and missing the draw hook I bet:tophat::tophat::thumbup:.
     
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  4. Rob Pulham

    Rob Pulham Happily making models Staff Member Administrator Feature Contributor

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    Hi Pete,
    I have one just like that which I made after seeing a gent on one of the forums was using one in a video that he posted:thumbup:
     
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  5. Kimbo

    Kimbo Staff Member Moderator

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    Nice one Pete. I have seen them used but never given one a go, but that will be remedied tonight, I’ll knock a couple up to try out :thumbs:
     
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