This is a simple tip to improve the appearance of Kadee N scale couplers. It is equally applicable whether they are used on N scale or on narrow gauge models. This tip is cosmetic only and should have no affect on the operation.
On the HO scale couplers the trip pin is darkened, but on the N scale versions it is left in untreated metal (phosphor bronze?). I do not know why this should be, but I do know that it reduces the realism by calling attention to the trip pin - one of those things that once you have noticed it once you then see it every time you look.
I suppose it may be possible to chemically blacken the pin but I have not gone this route. My method is to simply paint the pin matt black. Depending on your layout and weathering you may prefer to use dark grey or brown, but I found that black is fine. It is possible that the paint may chip over time but I have not yet found it a problem, and if it does then it would not be a big job to repaint as required.
Standard Coupler Sorry about the poor image quality, but I had already painted all my couplers before I could photograph one! |
Blackened trip pin |