009 Hook Couplings for Kato 11-109 (OO9) - Four Pairs

Four sets of OO9 couplers to replace the KATO couplings. These are designed to fit snugly into the existing holders and provide a pin compatible coupling hook. 
Easy to fit by removing the existing coupler and spring and fitting these OO9 compatible ones. 

Please note these are not suitable for the 11-105 , we have specific couplers for those in our shop. 

Couplers are based on the peregrine coupler with additional modifications for a better fit. 

You get 4 pairs of couplings, enough to convert four locos.

Finishing: All items are cleaned and cured by hand. They come in black and ready to fit with all supports removed. Additional painting to incorporate rust and weathering can be easily achieved with acrylic paints. 

All pieces and parts come unprimed and unpainted with all supports removed.

FAQ – Product FAQs

What exactly is included in this coupler set?

You receive four pairs of OO9 couplings (eight individual couplers in total). This is enough to convert four locos using the existing KATO coupler mounting points.

Are these couplers a direct replacement for KATO couplings?

Yes. They are designed to fit snugly into the existing KATO holders and provide a pin-compatible coupling hook, so you can swap them in without modifying the loco body or chassis.

Which scale and type are these couplers intended for?

These couplers are OO9 couplers, intended for OO9 narrow gauge models that currently use KATO-style couplings and compatible holders.

Are these couplers suitable for KATO 11-105 chassis?

No. These couplers are not suitable for the KATO 11-105 chassis. There are specific couplers for the 11-105 available separately in the shop, and those should be used instead.

What are these couplers based on?

The couplers are based on the peregrine coupler design, with additional modifications to give a better fit in the KATO holders and improve compatibility with OO9 stock.

Do the couplers come pre-finished or painted?

They come in black, cleaned and cured by hand, with all supports removed. They are unprimed and unpainted, but ready to fit straight away, and can be painted or weathered if you wish.

How do I remove the original KATO couplers safely?

Carefully ease the original KATO coupler and its spring out of the existing holder using fine tweezers or a small flat tool. Work slowly to avoid stressing the plastic around the mounting point, and keep a hand over the area so the spring does not ping away.

The new coupler feels loose in the holder. What should I check?

First, make sure the original KATO spring has been fully removed and that no small fragments remain in the pocket. Then check that the new coupler is fully seated in the holder. If it still feels loose, gently press it home again until it sits snugly; do not force it, as that can damage the mount.

My couplers are not lining up correctly between two locos. How can I fix this?

Check that both couplers are fully pushed into their holders and sitting flat. If one is slightly tilted, remove and refit it, ensuring it is the right way up and properly seated. Also confirm that the original KATO springs are not trapped under the new coupler, as this can cause misalignment.

The couplers don’t seem to hook together reliably. What could be wrong?

Ensure that both vehicles are fitted with the new OO9 couplers and that they are at the same height. If they still do not engage cleanly, check for any stray debris or paint on the hook area and gently clean it away so the hook can move freely.

One coupler is stiff and doesn’t move freely. How can I free it up?

Remove the coupler and inspect the shank and hook for any small bits of cured resin or layout debris. Carefully clean these away, then refit the coupler, making sure it is not pinched or twisted in the holder. Avoid using oil or grease, as this can affect paint and attract dirt.

I accidentally fitted a coupler to a KATO 11-105. Is it safe to remove and reuse?

Yes, provided it has not been forced into place. Gently remove it from the 11-105 chassis and inspect the shank and hook. If there are no visible cracks or distortions, it can be reused on a suitable loco with the correct holder.

Do I need to assemble any parts before fitting the couplers?

No assembly is required. Each coupler comes as a single piece with all supports removed, so you can fit them directly into the existing KATO holders after removing the original coupler and spring.

Do I need to prime the couplers before painting?

Priming is not strictly required, but it is recommended for the best paint adhesion and durability. A light coat of primer suitable for plastics or resin will help acrylic paints grip better, especially if you plan to add detailed weathering.

What type of paint should I use for weathering and detailing?

Acrylic paints work very well on these couplers. You can use acrylics to add rust tones, grime, and general weathering. Apply thin layers and build up the effect gradually to avoid clogging any moving parts.

How can I add realistic rust and weathering effects?

Use a combination of brown, orange, and dark grey acrylics applied in thin washes and dry-brushed layers. Focus on the hook and edges where wear would naturally occur. You can also use weathering powders over a matte varnish to add subtle dirt and rust textures.

Will painting affect how the couplers work?

Heavy paint layers can affect movement, so keep paint away from the shank and any areas that need to move freely. Apply paint sparingly to the visible surfaces only, and allow each coat to dry fully before handling.

Do I need to do any cleaning or preparation before painting?

Although the couplers are cleaned and cured by hand, it is good practice to give them a quick wash in mild soapy water, rinse, and let them dry completely. This removes any remaining handling oils and helps paint and primer adhere more reliably.