009 Hook Couplings for Kato 11-105 (OO9) - Four Pairs

Four sets of OO9 couplers to replace the KATO 11-105 couplings. These are designed to fit snugly into the existing holders and provide a pin compatible coupling hook. 
We have specially designed these to fit the Kato 105 chassis, the Kato bogies have a pin inside that will slip easily into these couplings as the pocket is a different design to the 109

Easy to fit by removing the existing coupler and spring and fitting these OO9 compatible ones. 

Please note these are not suitable for the 11-109 , 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is included in this coupler set?

You receive four pairs of OO9 couplings, which is enough to convert four locos that use the KATO 11-105 chassis or compatible bogies with the same coupling holder and pin arrangement.

Which KATO chassis are these couplers designed for?

These couplers are specifically designed to fit the KATO 11-105 chassis. They fit snugly into the existing coupling holders and accept the pin from the Kato bogies, which have a pocket design different from the 11-109.

Are these couplers compatible with the KATO 11-109 chassis?

No, these couplers are not suitable for the 11-109 chassis. There are specific couplers for the 11-109 available separately in our shop, designed around that different pocket and pin arrangement.

What style of coupler are these based on?

These OO9 couplers are based on the peregrine coupler design, with additional modifications to improve the fit in the KATO 11-105 coupling pocket and to work smoothly with the bogie pin.

Do the couplers come painted or finished?

The couplers come cleaned, fully cured, and in black, with all supports removed. They are ready to fit straight away. They are supplied unprimed and unpainted so you can add your own finishing, weathering, and detailing if you wish.

Can I use these on other OO9 stock?

They are intended for use with KATO 11-105 chassis and compatible bogies that share the same coupling holder and pin layout. If another model uses the same KATO 11-105 chassis or identical coupling pocket, they will usually fit, but always check the holder and pin arrangement before committing.

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

First, confirm that you are using a KATO 11-105 chassis and that all original parts (old coupler and spring) have been fully removed. Check that there is no leftover flash or debris in the coupling pocket. The coupler should sit snugly; if it still feels loose, gently press it fully home into the holder so the pin sits correctly in the coupling.

The coupler is very tight and hard to move. Is that normal?

The coupler should fit snugly but still move freely. If it is very tight, remove it and check for any small bits of plastic or paint in the KATO holder or on the coupler shank. Lightly cleaning the pocket and ensuring the coupler is not painted on the working surfaces usually resolves stiffness.

My locos keep uncoupling on curves. What can I do?

Check that the couplers are fully seated in the KATO holders and that the bogie pins are properly engaged in the coupler pocket. Make sure the couplers can swing freely and are at a consistent height. Also check that there is no paint buildup on the coupler faces that might prevent proper engagement.

The coupler will not stay in the KATO holder. What might be wrong?

Ensure you have removed the original KATO coupler and spring completely, and that you are using the correct chassis (11-105, not 11-109). Any remaining spring or plastic in the pocket can prevent the new coupler from seating correctly. Clean out the pocket and re-fit, making sure the coupler is pushed fully into place.

Do I need to lubricate the couplers?

In most cases lubrication is not necessary. If you do choose to lubricate, use a very small amount and keep it away from the coupling faces and any areas you plan to paint, as lubricant can affect paint adhesion and attract dust.

How do I remove the original KATO 11-105 couplers?

Carefully pull the original coupler and its spring out of the existing holder on the KATO 11-105 chassis. Take your time and work gently so you do not damage the plastic pocket. Once both the coupler and spring are removed, the new OO9 coupler can be inserted into the same holder.

What is the basic fitting process for these OO9 couplers?

The process is straightforward:

• Remove the existing KATO coupler and spring from the 11-105 chassis.
• Check that the holder is clean and free of debris.
• Insert the new OO9 coupler into the original holder.
• Ensure the Kato bogie pin slips easily into the coupler pocket and that the coupler moves freely.

Do I need any special tools to fit these couplers?

No special tools are required. A small pair of tweezers or fine pliers can be helpful when removing the original coupler and spring, but the new couplers themselves simply push into the existing holders.

Can I prime and paint the couplers?

Yes. The couplers are supplied unprimed and unpainted in black, with all supports removed. You can apply a suitable primer and then paint them with acrylic paints. Avoid heavy paint buildup on the working faces and pivot areas so that the couplers continue to operate smoothly.

How can I add rust and weathering effects?

Rust and weathering can be easily achieved using acrylic paints. Light dry-brushing and thin washes work well to pick out edges and give a used-metal look. Build up colour gradually rather than in one thick coat, and keep the actual coupling faces and moving joints as free of paint as possible.

Do I need to do any sanding or cleanup before painting?

All supports are removed and the parts are cleaned and cured by hand, so no major cleanup is usually required. Before painting, you can:

• Give the couplers a gentle wash in mild soapy water and let them dry.
• Lightly inspect for any tiny nibs from support removal and carefully smooth them if desired.

Should I paint the couplers before or after fitting?

You can do either, but many modellers prefer to fit first, check operation, then paint and weather in situ. If you paint before fitting, keep paint off the shank and pivot areas so that the coupler still slides and swings freely once installed.