Making and Installing Kirby Couplings 

Kirby couplings (named after Brian Kirby) are a simple modification to Bachmann tension lock couplings to allow them to a be remotely uncoupled with a fixed magnet. The modification involves gluing a magnetic 'tail' such as a staple (in this case a length of soft iron wire) onto the coupling hook, and installing magnets at appropriate points in the track. As the wagon goes over the magnet, the tail is pulled down, and the coupling hook lifted up.
This video goes through making the changes to the couplings, installing the magnets in the under the track, and a demonstration of them working.
Produced for Abingdon and District Model Railway Club - if you are in the Oxfordshire area, why not come along and see what we have to offer? Visit us at www.admrc.org.uk or AbingdonMRC