I have a couple of analog, non-running locomotives and trainset that I used as static displays on Loewenherz Railway Park. Since I am modelling RailAdventure, I wanted to convert them for special transfers, attached between barrier wagons. SYMOBA and Ebay-Mobadapter sell the NEM sockets in various sizes and lengths that fit my purpose.

Retrofitting NEM Sockets on ICE 2 Trainset

I wanted flexibility on ICE 2 trainset: (a) able to transport them as a complete 2-/3-car set or (b) as individual car. Ebay-Mobadapter sells 3D-printed adapter pair for these Märklin ICE 2 trainsets. Each trailing wagon has a male and female socket to allow for close coupling as a complete trainset. The 3D-printed adapters converted these sockets into NEM sockets.

On the ICE 2 driving trailer (dt. Steuerwagen), a different type of adapter is required. This requires opening varoius parts to fit the coupler on the front.

Retrofitting NEM Sockets on Thalys Trainset

On Thalys trainset, the original couplings are different. On the power car, I need to make adjustments. Again, using the NEM socket height guide, I found the correct height on the original coupling. The end of the NEM socket had to be removed so that it would be attached to the Thalys coupling. Using epoxy glue, it will harden after 12 hours and leave a strong transparent bond.

Likewise, the 2-car trailing set, I used epoxy glue to fix them. Alligator clip is handy to hold the NEM socket while drying.

Retrofitting NEM Sockets on Thalys Power Car

The Thalys power car requires more work. Firstly, the front cover needs to be removed.

Unfortunately, the NEM socket height guide shows that the position of the NEM socket will be too low on the power car irrespective of the adapter I use.

The solution was to use another adapter (yellow/lemon green) and thus, posititoning the NEM socket exactly within the gap and sits neatly within. This mean when transfering the Thalys power car, the barrier wagon, either Habfis or Dmz wagon, needs to be used so that the coupling will be at correct height. It is a good compromise for a challenging scale problem.

Retrofitting NEM Sockets on LNER Mallard

Same procedure applied on LNER Mallard locomotive and tender.

All these and future special transfer rolling stock will be fitted with NEM sockets, if they do not come with one, and Hornby magnetic buckeye couplers,

Top: NEM adapters for ICE 1/2; bottom special adaptor for different coupling height.