TYCO Mantua HO Engine Replacement Coupler Assembly

This coupler assembly is intended to replace the rear coupler on TYCO/Mantua HO engines which have failed or are missing.  Typical the OEM coupler was held on by a small pin or rivet. There is a small hole in the metal portion of the tab which you can see here in the photo below.

Well, this hole is not of much use to try and use a “standard” coupler in any way.  So, I designed a holder which slides over this tab and a custom coupler which fits inside it. 

Using this assembly is easy. Thread an M2x6 screw into one side of the holder part way until it is slightly visible from inside.  Then slide the holder over the end of the metal tab of the engine.

Now slide the printed replacement coupler into the holder.  You want to line up the hole in the coupler with the screw so that you thread the screw into the hole of the coupler.  Once you have the two aligned, tighten down the screw until snug against the metal tab. This will prove a good friction fit and allow the coupler to move. 

You may have to remove the rear truck to install the assembly as the clearance is a bit tight at the rear of the engine body.  But this resolves the issue of a lack of a coupler and gets your old loco back into service.  I hope this helps you out.