Couplers

[TheKman]

Ok...Zippy is so confused...

May seem like a stupid question but I never done any rolling stock or engine models.

I am confused regarding the couplers on my model which is a 89 ft TOFC. Reading the info on the blueprint, it implies that the couplers are separate shapes from the rest of the model. On the PapaXpress tutorial for engines, he makes reference to using the RSC buckeye coupler. Am I understanding correctly that the RSC coupler can be used?

Next, if the couplers are separate shapes, is the rest of the model drawn minus the couplers?

Finally, if I have to or choose to use my couplers, how is the coupler classified within 3DC when doing the export? Is it rail vehicle or scenery? Neither?

Thanks

[RailWorkshop]

This is good tutorial also - https://www.christrains.com/en/ts_faq_p ... lings.html

[GreatNortherner]

That indeed is a very good tutorial!

The same approach can be applied to buckeye couplers. When using the Kuju shapes or compatible, the offset between the two coupled/uncoupled state pivots is exactly 0.75 meters.

Reading the info on the blueprint, it implies that the couplers are separate shapes from the rest of the model.
Yes. The wagon/engine model does not include the couplers as 3D parts. A US knuckle coupler requires two shapes: one for the coupler in coupled, one in its uncoupled state.

On the PapaXpress tutorial for engines, he makes reference to using the RSC buckeye coupler. Am I understanding correctly that the RSC coupler can be used?
Yes. You can link the Kuju US couplers via the Blueprint editor. Just bear in mind that linking to external blueprint sets (like you would do in this case) will not allow you to export the entire wagon.


Next, if the couplers are separate shapes, is the rest of the model drawn minus the couplers?
Yes. You can model it like it would look in the real world if the couplers were removed.

how is the coupler classified within 3DC when doing the export? Is it rail vehicle or scenery? Neither?
1_####_coupler

[TheKman]

Great Northerner via a PM helped me out regarding my questions. Big thanks to him.

So I'm back up and progressing again. Progress is a bit slow being the first time I've done this, but I've made some good progress today compared to the rest of the week.