| Hornby International have recently released an accessory which will be useful for some modern image modellers. Pack HC8040 contains four HO scale Scharfenberg couplers as used on many modern units, underground trains and trams, but note there are different types of Scharfenberg couplers. This model is of a fully automatic type which looks similar to the Dellner pattern. These couplers are to HO scale, but the discrepancy to 4mm scale with something of this size is less than a millimetre. Note that this is actually a working coupling, fitting into a NEM pocket, that can be used for remote uncoupling. However, the Modelling Secretary believes this can only function where the coupler is fitted protruding well in front of the stock and not, as on Class 444/450 Desiro units, under the corridor connections. Also, unless you have very generous curves, this coupler will need fitting into a NEM pocket that at the very least can pivot, more likely fitted to a swinging arm. A loading limit is not stated, but it is doubtful if this coupling can take too much strain. |
