Re: {melb} comeg and hitchi

[mk@netstra.com.au (Michael Kurkowski)]

JuliaDarling@mailcity.com (Aussie_Ben) wrote in 
<391ba6d3$0$31558@news01.syd.optusnet.com.au>:

>i am wondering weather a comeg can ce oupled to a hitachi?
>has it been done? anyone got pics of it?
>i know i am asking alto but it is for an assigment

<standard FAQ response #234326>

Aussie_Ben,

Hitachis use a standard autocoupler, as used on most freight, and 
locomotive stock. Comengs use a "Scharfenburg" type coupler. 

The Scharfenburg type coupler provides all air and electrical connections 
for coupling a Comeng with another Comeng. A Comeng can be coupled to any 
autocoupled stock using a special transition coupler, which is stored 
beneath the cab. The transition coupler connects directly to the 
Scharfenburg, and provides a knuckle for the autocoupler, and air hose 
connections. This will allow a Comeng to couple with both a locomotive and 
a Hitachi set, as mentioned above. 

The transition coupler doesn't provide any electrical connection, therefore 
a Comeng and Hitachi don't run together, for this reason. As far as I know, 
a speed limit of 60kph also applies while using transition couplings (Can 
anyone confirm this one?).

If you are lucky, on the Bendigo, Ballarat, and Broadmeadows-Somerton lines 
you will see loco hauled suburban transfers. When Comengs are in tow, of 
course, you will see the transition coupler used.

Sorry, I don't have any photos of Comeng-Hitachi sets coupled, or Comeng-
Loco's coupled, but someone here should.

HTH

Michael