I have a client with an H coupler on their Budd coach. It has an isssue with the tightlock pocket. What companies can repair or rebuild tightlock couplers? Does anyone sell replacement tightlock couplers?

Thanks.

Chris.

Any suggestions?

It doesn't sound like anyone who actually knows anything is going to reply to this, so I will.

There are standards governing what repairs can be done to coupler heads, including some that are particular to Type "H" couplers. Their machined working surfaces makes them special. When I was working with this sort of thing, I never heard of any firms making a business of reconditioning coupler heads. I suspect that it was expected that each shop would do its own repair in conformity with AAR or APTA standards (and such federal rules as might apply or reference the standards).

It sounds like your friend has a Type "H" that has had damage to the aligning pocket, as from misaligned couplers coming together. As I recall, repairs to these parts of the Type "H' head MAY be permissible by straightening or welding. Bent shanks can also be straightened. All I can say is to equip yourself with the relevant standard practices and start heating and beating accordingly.

I presume used couplers can be found, or new ones bought. For some reason the price $8,000 sticks in my mind, but I wouldn't count on getting one for that anymore.

- Aarne Frobom

For 25 years, I worked in the marketing and engineering departments at American Steel Foundries (ASF), a manufacturer of trucks and couplers for freight and passenger cars. I forwarded your inquiry to a friend who still works at ASF.

To his knowledge, no company repairs / reconditions type H tightlock couplers. New type H tightlock couplers may be available from McConway & Torley: http://www.mcconway.com/

Your initial query was forwarded to Russ Altherr, now retired, but formerly manager of coupler engineering at ASF. Russ offered the following insights:

"I knew that Hadady Corp. had worked on H type Tightlock couplers in the past. Since I was with Roger Gordon at our 25-year luncheon this noon and that Roger had gone back to Hadady to work, I contacted him. He checked with Fred Sherrer and determined that Tightlock coupler work was being done at Amtrack at Beach Grove, Indiana ( SE corner of the I465 bypass around Indianapolis). Good luck in making contact there."

Hadady: http://www.hadadycorp.com/

I just sent you a private email.

Try Gateway Rail Services in St. Louis