Fixing MTL F7 Coupler

After having a older micro trains f7 that I got in a train set for christmas a long time ago, I decided to finally fix a coupler that was broken when I bought it. I've been really lazy and have'nt really been interested in the hobby at all, but only making z scale tanks, halftracks, and planes that me and my friends play with.

I kind of wanted to run the old train I kept in it's box for years but when I ran it I remembered how terrible it runs in reverse, I really wanted to fix the coupler.(I just switched the shell to the other side so the train would'nt run backwards). So when I (tried to) change the coupler... I can't even see it!

So far I've completely dissassempled the coupler, and trying to reassemble one that I took off the front of the locomotive. The problem is, once I have all the parts of that pole thingy, and trying to put the screw into it, all of them pop right off again! It's like you need 3 hands to hold it down on both sides, hold the screw, and use the screw driver. So I was wondering if anyone knew a easier way to reassemble the coupler? I know there's something that you could buy to hold all the parts in place, but appearently the locomotive I have is and older model and has a different type of coupler. Also, I don't really know to much about this stuff, I'm kind of new to it so I'm sorry if I'm doing something wrong.

The easiest fix is to purchase new truck side frames as they come with the coupler already in place. Even for those of with experience putting that coupler back together again is tough. The truck side frames are part number 949 for the old one and 004 02 051 for the new number and about 10.00 a set and they fit the F units and GP9 and 35's. Undo two screws on the bottom the truck and pull off the old side frame and then install the new one and replace the screws. Do not reef those screws down tight after install the new truck side frames. Or you can get it rebuilt at a couple of places and one will even install wheel wipers to improve the F units performance and can fix the drive so it works well in both directions.

cheerz Garth

Hey, I'd like to donate that truck side frame with the new coupler for you. Hate to see a new Z scaler get discouraged on the first time at bat.

Email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and I'll make it happen for you.


Loren

Hello Anthony! As I said in chat... Welcome to the NEW Z Central Station! Glad to have you aboard.

Quickly, for you old-head ZCS members... and, even older-head Loren... ... Anthony is making Z-scale WWII tanks, half-tracks and airplanes... from PAPER! I'm trying to twist his arm to post some photos on ZCS, but... it's hard to fit my hand and arm through this cable connection.

Anthony... Loren is a very friendly and helpful and experianced MTL dealer here on ZCS. Please accept his offer of truck frames and coupler. If you need help with replacement and installation, I'm sure there are a few folks that are more than willing to help you with that, too.

And, yes... three arms, four hands, six fingers, and maybe an extra head are all helpful when trying to work or repair Z. Except for Garth... he likes torturing different parts of Z into new creations. Maybe it's a Great White North thing.

Thank you for being generous Loren:) But somehow I was able to fix the coupler without using any tools exept a really really small screw driver, a toothpick, and my hands if they are considered tools. I found a really easy way to but the coupler parts back in, if you have a toothpick put it where that base part is that the parts go into, and then carefully slide each peice down the toothpick, and try not to slant it too much because I heard the one of the wheel parts crack while fixing it:dry: not sure what it was thought. Then while holding the top part down, take away the toothpick then all you have to do is put the nail back in:) The couplers seemed a bit loose when I finished, but I guess I just did'nt make it tight enough.