Model Train Journal

Well, time to get started on this long delayed project. I'm going to start small and do this in sub-assemblies, as Aaron suggested to me via email. Totally the right way to do it.

So, I'll start by changing the USH FEF3 swing couple pilot to a FEF2 drop coupler style. While taking these photos I discovered the actual lower pilot is soldered to the upper buffer casting (not sure what its called) so it will be easier than I first thought. Then reshape the buffer point to fit the contour of the PSC casting and most likely add some bracing to tie it to the USH attachment bracket.

I'm impressed with the quality of the KTM casting compared to the later PSC.....not sure who PSC went to after KTM went out of business.

Hi Butch,

Just saw this. Been busy.

Instead of doing all the that, ie, desolder and reshaping the beam, perhaps buying a straight PSC pilot beam casting would be easier. Or using a brass stock piece & add detail as necessary. Then you simply solder your new pilot in picture to the new beam. For mounting, you can remove bracket from old pilot and solder to new beam “assembly”. This will require some fabrication on your part to get the correct pilot to rail height-easy peasy.

I’m curious if the coating is removed if that “hump” of original FEF-3 pilot is soldered to beam…or is part of the lower pilot…Little sanding may reveal, it may come off with some heat. Save you a lot of time/effort vs reshaping USH beam.

Aaron

That is a good idea Aaron, but fortunately the lower pilot is soldered to the pilot beam (see photo) I can separate them with heat. I think using the factory drilled and tapped mounting holes of the original pilot will be very handy down the road. Once I finish the project the the old KTM swing coupler pilot can join the others I purchased for comparison and will most likely be sold someday.

Neither the OMI or KEY pilots are nearly as complete or as nice as the original KTM pilot. Look at the photos at the quality of the KTM pilot casting compared to the PSC drop coupler pilot which is a Korean casting. No comparison in quality with KTM winning hands down. All the PSC castings I've picked up are not nearly as clean as the earlier KTM casting.

In fact the PSC/KTM Challenger I picked up several months back had interior smoke box detail, like nozzles, petticoat structure and upper tubing and adjusting rods. The one that came with the loco (in a PSC bag) was made by KTM, another one I bought from PSC in the very late 90's. for this project, is pitiful by comparison. Mounting ears and holes are partially there and/or clogged up with brass, It will take twice as long (at least) to assembly the Korean casting as the KTM. So, I'll use the KTM casting and put the later PSC casting in the model box for a future owner.