S-1 coupler conversion?

[iis612]

I picked up an Atlas S-1 off of ebay recently. I had no idea that it had Hook/Horn couplers. Has anyone ever converted the couplers on one of these?

 

[stuart_canada]

what kind of couplers you converting to? kadee or?
kadee suggests number 28 couplers
should be a fairly easy to convert

 

[Squidbait]

The coupler box on those locos should take a Kadee #5 box if you trim the ears off.

 

[CCT70]

I picked up an Atlas S-1 off of ebay recently. I had no idea that it had Hook/Horn couplers. Has anyone ever converted the couplers on one of these?

Oh, absoutely, many times. Simply slice off the ears of a Kadee #5 box, put your copper spring in the box and your #5 coupler, scre it to it, and you're all set. Done it MANY times. Dang good engines! :thumb:

 

[iis612]

What is the easiest way to get the old ones off?

 

[CCT70]

There is a pin in the center of the older ones that you simply pull out with a pair of needle nosed pliers. You can re-use that pin, but I'd drill and tap for a 2-56 screw. The newer ones already are drilled and tapped for a 2-56 screw in which case, you simply unscrew it and re-use the same screw with the new couple box.

 

[iis612]

Thanks Tom:thumb:

 

[iis612]

I upgraded to the #5's, and was able to do so using the same "pull off" box that came on the stock loco. The draft gear is secure, and centers nicely.
Thanks everyone for your assistance.
Matt

 

[iis612]

There wouldn't be anyone who has converted this loco to DCC is there? I can not even get the body off the frame to figure out which decoder would be best...

 

[abutt]

Contact Atlas. They'll send you a sheet on taking the engine apart plus parts list. Damn good engine. Ran two of them for years.
Allan

 

[iis612]

Thanks Abutt.
Does anyone know a website that lists decoders and there best installations?