Availability

These models are now available on Thingiverse, here:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6890864

3D Models (STLs)

For each remote uncoupler you will need:

• 1x Cam

• 1x Frame

• 1x Cam Follower

• 1x Drilling Jig (Once you have printed one of these you can reuse for all uncouplers)

• 1x Uncoupling Plate

Off the shelf parts

• 3mm diameter brass rod. The length depends upon the depth of your baseboard and track sub-base.

• 4mm O/D 3mm I/D PTFE tube. The length depends upon the depth of your baseboard and track sub-base.

• 4mm O/D x 2mm I/D silicone tube. Approximately 2 cm length. 

• Either 1x 4mm O/D x 20mm long compression spring (from ball point pens), or 2x 4mm O/D x 10mm long compression springs.

• Small countersunk wood screws.

Optional off the shelf parts

• 2mm O/D 1mm I/D silicon tube. 

• PTFE lubricant. You may not need this but if you do this should not react detrimentally with the PTFE tube or the 3d printed parts. 

Tools

• 3mm twist drill

• 3.5mm twist drill

• 4mm twist drill

• Various grades of abrasive paper, from 120 grit to fine

• Basic hand tools

Version 2.x

This is the second design iteration of the remote uncouplers, and was used on the first module of Dib's Model railway, "Dib's Yard" These have been in place for around four years at the time of writing, and have mostly been a successful experience. The only issue had been for the uncouplers on the two furthest sidings from the operator which required the longest operating rods, and these flexed far too much, even with bracing.  The video linked right (or below on some devices) shows how these were built.

Version 1.x

This was the first design which I used on Merridale, my daughter's model railway.