[vincent52]

Good afternoon. New member, just joined. I’m building a layout for my grandson but am a beginner. I have what I believe is called a “B” power unit. It runs great but I don’t know what it is. I need to replace the couplers but don’t know what to do or what I need. I’d appreciate any help I can get.
Thanks very much

 

[Fire21]

Welcome to the forum!

Open the link below and look at the loco it shows, the Union Pacific Alco B-unit. Looks identical to what you have. These would be nearly identical to the PA-1s that Alco built, except minus the cab. Hope you have a good time with the hobby. :smilie_daumenpos:

http://www.hobbylinc.com/con-cor-di...ummy-union-pacific-n-scale-model-train-202048

As for changing the couplers, I can't help you there...I'm clueless on couplers!

 

[traction fan]

Con-Cor/Kato model of an Alco PB-1

Good afternoon. New member, just joined. I’m building a layout for my grandson but am a beginner. I have what I believe is called a “B” power unit. It runs great but I don’t know what it is. I need to replace the couplers but don’t know what to do or what I need. I’d appreciate any help I can get.
Thanks very much

vincent52;

You model is a "Con-Cor"/Kato Alco PB-1 unit. (Imported by Con-cor and actually made by Kato.) Kato locomotives are excellent. This is an older design, but one of the very best running locomotives in early N-scale history. Micro-Trains makes a special conversion kit for this model. That was the easiest way to convert the couplers from the original Rapido clunky square hook couplers to Micro-trains knuckle couplers. It looks like your model went through this conversion but has parts of the couplers broken off. A replacement conversion kit will fix the problem. Check the www.fiferhobbies.com website for more info. The conversion kit you need is item# MT 00135000(1101) it sells for $5,79
Making a layout for your grandson sounds great! I plan on doing the same. Since you're new to all this, I'm attaching some files I wrote to help new modelers. I also have a book recommendation for you. "Getting Started in Model Railroading" by Jeff Wilson is a great "first book" for new modelers. It covers a wide variety of model railroad topics in easy text and many color photos. You can order a copy from https://kalmbachhobbystore.com/produtcs/books

good luck, have fun;

Traction Fan :smilie_daumenpos:

View attachment WHERE DO I START rev 4.pdf

View attachment 1 How to build a better first layout.pdf

View attachment 2 How to build a better first layout.pdf

View attachment 3 & 4 How to build a better first layout.pdf

View attachment 5 How to build a better first layout.pdf

View attachment 6 How to build a better first layout.pdf

View attachment All AboutTurnouts rev 4.pdf

View attachment MODEL RAILROADING ON A BUDGET.pdf

View attachment Model Railroad Terminology 3.pdf

 

[Fire21]

Since your B unit is powered, if you wanted an A unit to lead your train, you could cheaply get this dummy (non-powered) made by Con-Cor.

https://www.con-cor.com/shop/n-pa-1...engines-with-dc-lighting-and-reversing-diode/

 

[vincent52]

Thanks for the info!

 

[DonR]

Here are pics of similar Alco models showing the
A & B units together.

https://www.katousa.com/N/PA/index.html

Don