Modellers Group
DG Couplings
A description of the coupling system used on Westford
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A pack of DG Couplings consists of: An etched brass sheet of couplings, enough for sixteen couplings or eight vehicles. |
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To save time when creating this page, I have used the drawings and some of the text from the instruction sheet supplied with the DG couplings. These remain the copyright of the owner and are used here, with permission, for illustration purposes only. DG Couplings are now produced by Wizard Models Ltd
Westford Modellers Group, or its members, have no connection with DG Couplings or Wizard Models Ltd, other than as satisfied customers. I have found it best to use a blackening fluid rather than paint to 'colour' the couplings as paint tends to clog up the working parts. Blacken the etched sheet as one piece before cutting out the couplings. the wire does not need to be blackened. Construction is a little fiddly, but should not be too difficult. Follow the instruction sheet, taking care not to solder every thing solid. The outer extensions of the buffing plate (see drawing above) can be bent back towards the buffer beam a little to aid coupling and un-coupling on curved track. Take the time to make sure the loop is formed square and to the sizes stated in the instructions. A pair of pliers can be marked as noted in the instructions, or purchase the bending tool from DG. Some problems were encountered when loops were of different sizes. I have found that the steel dropper is best left straight as in fig 4a (see left), this seems to work the best. The end of this dropper should just clear the top of the rail when in the vertical position. We have found it necessary to make a couple of height gauges to ensure that all the couplings have their buffing plates set at the same height, this is essential for faultless operation. In general the couplings are fitted under the buffer beam, however, buffer beams tend to vary in height above rail top. Some spacing may be necessary or the underside of the buffer beam may need trimming. For layouts with curves of less than 3ft radius, you will probably need to fix the couplings to the bogies of coaches etc.. But remember to get the buffing plate at the right height. Available from: Wizard Models Ltd, PO Box 70, BARTON upon HUMBER, DN18 5XY |
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Operation |
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Coupling: When the couplings meet the loops rise up the hooks and under the delay latches, dropping down behind the hooks. One loop may end up on top of a delay latch but the other will be coupled. (see above) | Uncoupling: To uncouple, ease the couplings or push slowly over an energised electro-magnet, the steel wire droppers are attracted and lift the loops. The delay latches fall back onto the hooks. (see above) | Delayed Action: De-energise or push beyond the magnet and the loops fall on to the top of the delay latches. The couplings are now in the delayed position and can be pushed and stay uncoupled. (see above) |
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Created 02 02 2003.
Revised 29 04 2024
Copyright © 2010 Terry Bowden, Westford Modellers Group