Knuckle coupler 1/32 - Scale I - Openrailway

thingiverse

I had been thinking about designing a 1/32 scale knuckle coupler for my US rail cars for a long time, and I was determined to replace the oversized LGB coupler with something more suitable. After several attempts that didn't quite work out, I finally found an easy-to-print and functional design. The automatic coupling works seamlessly, and it remains securely in place even when navigating tight curves. It also interfaces perfectly with an 820 Kadee coupler (and likely other brands as well). The springs are printed directly into the design, eliminating the need for small, expensive steel springs that can be difficult to find. This is still a work in progress, as I continue to develop different gearboxes to accommodate my various rail cars. So far, I've created three: 1. A versatile small gearbox. 2. A medium-sized gearbox specifically designed for my US Box Car (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1669510). 3. A large gearbox for my US Bobber Caboose (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1363887). I'm currently working on additional designs, including one for a 4 trucks flat car and an LGB adapter. I've also added the box and cover for the US 8-axle Flat Car (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1876524), which also fits the US 60' Boxcar (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2017636). Print Settings Printer: Vertex K8400 Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 0.1 mm Infill: 30-40% Notes: Printed in ABS due to the two-part design requiring glue and its reduced brittleness compared to PLA (PLA can be glued with super-glue, making it a viable option as well). Post-Printing The moving parts need to rotate freely. If they don't, file the holes slightly. Parts # 2 & 4 must be attached to the flat side of the hook (01) and jaw (02). Alternatively, you can print parts # 01_02 and 03_04 with supports, though this results in a less satisfactory finish that requires sanding for a smooth surface – glue is still necessary. There's a hole beneath the claw part; it can be used to insert an iron rod if desired (required for uncoupling magnets), but stainless steel isn't magnetic so use caution.