There are fundamentally two types of Micro-Trains couplings: body mounted, and truck mounted. The former mount to the body of the wagon / carriage / locomotive (as would happen on the real thing). The latter mount to the bogie, so as to allow operation on tight radius curves. There are different versions available in both types, distinguished by the length of the coupling rod (shank) from the model to the knuckle. In general, operation on small radius bends will require longer coupling "shanks". Diagrams showing the different variants are available.
These couplings are widely used on American models, with an extensive range of variants to cover different model types and coupling mountings. However none of them are explicitly designed for UK image rolling stock. Consequently some degree of modification will be involved. This means being brave!
The American models have a well defined standard for these couplings. This sets two things: the height of the coupler above the rail tops, and the height of the iron wire used for uncoupling. There is a jig available to set the former, and a shim (like a feeler gauge) to set the latter. A range of different couplings can be purchased with different height offsets so that when assembled, the finished coupling meets the standard.
Unfortunately, this standard seems to put the coupling too high for UK models. The consequence is that the coupling collides with buffers, particularly on the smaller radius bends. My railway has bends down to approx 270mm radius (around 11 inches) and it can be an issue. Some railways go smaller still. My solution has been to establish my own standard, with the coupling mounted approx 1mm lower. The only impact is that the iron wire needs to be pushed a little higher, which is simple to do.
Model | Micro-trains coupling conversion |
Farish EWS class 66 | #1130 long shank truck mounted |
Farish Bogie oil tanker | #1129 medium shank truck mounted |
Farish Bogie container | #1129 medium shank truck mounted |
Farish 63' carriages | #1129 medium shank truck mounted |