Greenwich couplings
Many members of the Society model in 4mm scale and on 9mm gauge track (commonly known as 009) and through many years of testing different coupling systems available the members decided to design their own 009 coupling system. This is known as Greenwich couplings and can be found being successfully used on many layouts around the world. The Greenwich coupling is also seeing use as a coupler in 7mm modelling as well.
The Greenwich Coupling is not a completely new invention but rather an improvement on the systems that were available at the time. This includes developing a process that blackens the brass fret so that it does not require painting after being built (apart from the occasional touch up). This means that paint is not clogging up the moving parts.
The Greenwich Couplings come as a black brass etched sheet kit. The couplings are cut out and folded into the correct shape and this takes a moderate amount of modelling skill. A small amount of steel wire (provided) is wound around a part of the coupling that protrudes backwards at an angle. This lifts the coupling open when moving over a magnetic field, either permanent or electromagnetic.
Small permanent magnets for use as fixed uncoupling positions on a layout are also available.
Also available is a coupling height gauge so that you can fix your couplings to a consistent height above rail level ensuring that all your stock can couple up. The society use this as standard so that we can run visiting stock on other members layouts.
Sales
Where can you purchase Greenwich Couplings?
Greenwich Couplings, the Height Gauge and Uncoupling Magnets can be purchased through the following model suppliers:
Tutorial video