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What is the correct scale distance between an F7A/B unit?

I have an Athearn set, the A is a modern unit with body mounted boxes, the B unit is the BB design with frame mounted couplers using those silly plastic clips, using the included hook and horns, it just doesn't look right, too much of a gap, but I've never seen a porto to judge it by.

Also, does anyone know of a source for the bellows, if I'm using the right term.
 
Well here's a photo of one. I would say the proto is about 3 ft. So the HO size 1:87. So a scale of about .41 inches. Just less than a half an inch.

8673.1304252971.jpg
 


Thanks for the info, I'd never seen one either, now to find the right couplers to close the gap up a bit.
 
American Line makes a close coupling kit for Athrean F units. it comes with new coupler mounting boxes and diaphragms. A three pack is part #9803. Set you back about 14 bucks. I'm not sure how close exactly it makes them. I've got the package here but it's still on my to-do list.
 
Gary B said:
American Line makes a close coupling kit for Athrean F units. it comes with new coupler mounting boxes and diaphragms. A three pack is part #9803. Set you back about 14 bucks. I'm not sure how close exactly it makes them. I've got the package here but it's still on my to-do list.
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I'll have to look into that, problem is the A unit is a modern model with boxes, the B unit has the tabs, would have to re-engineer the B unit to accept a box.

I thought about a draw bar as well, something to consider for a fast and sneezy fix since I always run them as a set anyway.
 
I believe Kadee may also have a close-coupling kit.

You can also try to use Kadee's short shank couplers. The whisker style Kadee short shank couplers drop right into the B-unit without the need to retrofit with actual boxes.
 
The only caveat to the 3-foot spacing is whether the coupled units will make it around whatever curves you are using. I'm not sure about the newere Athearn F's, but with diaphragms on my F's, I need a bit more space and have to leave a little gap between the diaphragms. Some of my m.u. cab units are drawbarred...with a bent paper clip. Just formed a loop at each end and snapped the plastic caps right over the loops.
 


I drilled and tapped a 2/56 hole at the end of the coupler pocket on the frame and installed a short shank Kadee. This closes that mile gap. Phil
 
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