Bachmann Branchline Auto-Release Coupling System

The first Bachmann Branchline OO Scale Class 31 Diesel Locomotives have recently arrived and are now available from Bachmann stockists. Not only do these models signal the first time the Class 31 (and Class 30) has been modelled in OO Scale by Bachmann Branchline, but their arrival also marks the introduction of Bachmann’s ground-breaking Auto-Release Coupling System (as fitted to SOUND FITTED DELUXE Class 30/31s).

SOUND FITTED DELUXE Class 30 and 31 models are equipped with the Bachmann Auto-Release Coupling System.

The Auto-Release Coupling System provides hands-free uncoupling when used on DCC, operated with a single press of a dedicated DCC function button. The much-anticipated system uses an electromagnetic coil, which when energised by the DCC decoder moves both the coupling hook and a paddle which lifts the opposing coupling hook, allowing the remote, automatic uncoupling. Due to their unique design, Auto-Release Couplings are compatible with a wide range of tension lock couplings as commonly used by railway modellers. However, because of the electromagnetic operation, the coupling fitted to the opposing piece of rolling stock from which the Auto-Release Coupling is to be uncoupled must employ a non-magnetic coupling hook.

Bachmann Branchline models are constructed from premium components and materials, and this extends to the metal used for the coupling hooks – on Branchline models these are formed from brass, a non-ferrous metal. Whilst more expensive to produce, brass coupling hooks have the advantage that they will not deteriorate; some other metals may rust or corrode when exposed to variable humidity and fluctuating temperatures, conditions which many model railway environments are often subject to. Being non-ferrous also has the advantage of being non-magnetic, so Bachmann Branchline couplings operate seamlessly when used with our new Auto-Release Couplings.

It has recently been brought to our attention however, that the couplings used on some third-party products employ coupling hooks made from ferrous metals, making them magnetic and so incompatible with the Auto-Release Coupling System. In light of this development, we must advise our customers and consumers that compatibility with the Auto-Release Coupling System is restricted to tension lock couplings fitted with a non-magnetic coupling hook.

Concurrent with future production of models fitted with Auto-Release Couplings, we shall be making provision for spare brass coupling hooks to be available so that consumers can change any non-compatible coupling hooks in their existing fleet. However, as the first production run of Bachmann Branchline Class 30/31s is now complete, as a gesture of goodwill we will provide any consumer that has purchased a SOUND FITTED DELUXE Class 30/31 with a small quantity of coupling hooks to aid their conversion of any pieces of rolling stock which employ non-compatible coupling hooks.

Alternatively, a range of couplings are available as retail accessories from Bachmann Branchline which are suitable for retrofitting to many different types of third-party rolling stock. In addition, all SOUND FITTED DELUXE Class 30/31 models are supplied with a pair of standard tension lock couplings which can be used on rolling stock where compatibility with the Auto-Release Coupling System is required.

Any consumer that has purchased a SOUND FITTED DELUXE Class 30/31 and would like to claim their free coupling hooks should email service@bachmann-europe.co.uk, including a copy of their proof of purchase. The components will be provided once available, subject to manufacture and shipping this is expected to be in late-2024.