Can Dingham Autocouplers be used double-ended so that locos can be turned?
A method of making couplers with both a loop and a latch is given in the 7mm instructions. Theoretically, fitting such double-ended couplings at both ends of locos which are turned should solve the problem, but it has to be said that the couplers do not work very well if this method is employed. There’s simply too much friction between the two loops to allow reliable uncoupling. (It must also be said that this applies to all couplers based on the loop and latch principle). There are other possible ways around the problem in certain circumstances. For example, there are many end-to-end layouts with a shed and a turntable on which only certain tender passenger engines on certain trains are turned. Passenger tank engines and goods locos are not turned. In such a case, the locos which are turned can be fitted with a hook-with-latch at both ends and the rakes of coaches they work can have hooks with loops at each end. Further development of this idea will allow tail loads to be added to pas
