Winterley Couplings |
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A range of 7mm etched brass windows for the 0 gauge modeller.
Control your layout without switches using a mechnaically interlocked lever frame built to 1/12th full size.
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If you require more information or wish to order items, please write to: John Shaw 31 Popes Court Popes Lane Totton SOUTHAMPTON SO40 3GF
You may email me at: john@winterleyproducts.co.uk |
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To see how the couplings work, or |
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Winterley Couplings have been used on stock for some years, especially following the showing of my layout Aveton Gifford at shows in the South. The couplings allow uncoupling to take place on any flat track WITHOUT the need for magnets under or in the track. The operator may uncouple one or more in a rake at any position. The late Rodney Pearce designed this method of coupling for 3mm scale. I saw them at an Exhibition and was fascinated by them. Rodney had needed to make each coupling to match the vehicle he was fitting and I felt that at least in O gauge it must be possible to produce parts etched in brass that would produce identical couplings each time. I also wanted to try them on my 7mm layout where much shunting is carried out and the operators found the 3 link couplings tedious, especially at exhibitions. After fitting Winterley Couplings to my stock, and after a little practice of the technique, the operators are able to carry out the shunting moves without ‘the hand of God’ over the layout. The benefit in O gauge is that the hook and 3 links of the existing couplings are still available so that some stock need not have them fitted. One example is a tank wagon with an open chassis; the coupling would be rather unsightly. In O gauge the couplings fit level with the underside of the buffer beam (as shown above) using 10BA bolts as supplied. The etches in 4mm have been redesigned but work in a similar way. They are designed to replace the Bachmann coupling, although I am aware their design has since changed. I have fitted them to most makes of proprietary wagons, although much of the existing mounting has to be removed (except Bachmann as stated). Kit or scratch built stock present no problem as the couplings fit to the floor with some packing. Fixing is with 10BA bolts supplied. A jig is supplied to ensure the level and length on the fixed loop is standard. Vehicles with long buffer shanks need some adjustment to the hook; this is covered in the instructions. A little soldering is required, mainly to strengthen bends in the etches. Other requirements to help make the couplings work well: A good controller and smooth running locos help to achieve perfect working of these couplings. It is easier if uncoupling takes place where the operator can see the hooks drop; i.e. use a hand held controller. If your stock is very free running, they may couple/uncouple when you least expect it. I find a small piece of foam rubber placed between the floor and one wheel rim is sufficient to stop the problem and will not affect the pulling capabilities of locos with a long train. I do not recommend shortening the loops too much to close the gap between vehicles. The gap allows for coupling/uncoupling on curves. In O gauge the gap is similar to 3 link, in 4mm the gap closer than the proprietary couplings. HANDS FREE OPERATION – ANYWHERE! For prices and further details CLICK HERE |
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