I think it would be good if manufacturers included a spare bogie frame without a coupling pocket with their models - or alternatively make it detachable.
the coupling pocket protrudes quite a bit and can hit the detail parts (pipes, dummy coupling and hook) or snow plough.
I know you can cut the coupling pocket off but this is obviously irreversible and means you can't go back to having an operational coupling at each end.
alternatively the manufacturers could sell bogie frames without coupling pockets separately.
anyway bit of a random post but some of my thoughts after spending some time adding details to a loco this evening and cutting the coupling pocket off too.
Tim
I agree, the hole from an empty NEM pocket looks out of place. I can think of two models where this has been done. The Dapol Western and the Farish Warship. The former came with a separate bogie in the box if you wanted to fit the front end detail, the latter came with a couple of front skirts (I hope that is the right word!) which hid the coupler pocket. Two very good models, the leading end of which looks so much better with a little bit of thought from the manufacturer.
Totally agree.
I am more likely to commit to replacement if I had a spare, otherwise surgery is the only way for me. Folk complain about the rapido coupling, but the NEM pocket is just as bad when it is visible.
I did find that reversing the bogie 180 degrees on the Schools class 4-4-0 worked for me - but given the problems some folk had with radii and fouling the valve gear, it may not work for all. All kettles look better without front couplings.
Bob
hi guys,
I bought two class 37 bogie frames from bachmann spares this week. good service from them.
I suppose if they have a good source of spares for each loco type it's problem solved.
anyway I will cut the coupling pockets off a few more locos now but keep a spare frame to return it to couplings at both ends in the future.
Tim