Abstract: A railroad coupler knuckler meets AAR contour requirements and it includes unique external weight reducing features that strategically reduce weight without compromising strength or fatigue life. The design of the railroad knuckle of the present invention allows for formation of the knuckle through forging or coreless casting techniques and thus allows for the use of a better grade of steel compared to AAR Grade E and such forged or cast knuckle will yield much higher fatigue life compared to cast knuckles.

Abstract: An improved coupler knuckle with an improved interior configuration for handling forces imparted on the knuckle and transferring said imparted forces through the knuckle and improving handling of linear force loads and their transmission the interior having a force handling structure that includes spaced apart layers and cavities, with a cavity extending between the nose section and the tail section of the coupler knuckle.

Abstract: A lightweight knuckle weighing substantially less than an AAR Standard Knuckle, is described for use in a railroad car coupler. This lightweight knuckle can be used, for example, to replace AAR Standard knuckle which becomes broken or otherwise damaged during operation and requires replacement in the field. Both the contouring and inner coring of an AAR Standard knuckle are radically changed to produce this lightweight knuckle which has all the functioning features of the standard knuckle, so as not to adversely effect the coupling and uncoupling operations of a coupler in which the lightweight knuckle is used.

Abstract: A draw bar replacement strap and method for temporarily coupling and moving a disabled railroad car without actuating the drawbar. The strap comprises an elongated, multi-section, multi-ply body extending between a terminal two ply eye through which the strap may be looped and a remote tail. The strap is integrally formed from an elongated, single ply that is appropriately looped and folded. A ratchet system is attached to the strap for tightening. An auxiliary pad is provided for preventing abrasion of the strap when deployed, and for restraining the strap when stored. A multiple ply section forms the eye and extends from the eye to an end journalled to the ratchet. An elongated, double ply body section extends between the ratchet journal and the tail. Through the multi-ply multi-segment structure the tow strength of the cable is vastly improved. In the method the strap is coupled around the towing drawbar, and the tail and ratchet are drawn through the eye.

Abstract: A combination knuckle hanger and knuckle pin holder tool for holding the knuckle and knuckle pin of a railway coupler, in which the knuckle and knuckle pin may be held in position from the coupler during internal repairs. The tool has a fork shaped base portion which is adapted to be inserted into the casting holes of a railway coupler in order to releasably secure the tool to the coupler. A holder cup is rigidly attached to the curved portion of the fork for holding the knuckle pin during the repairs, and an angled knuckle hanging peg is also attached to the curved portion of the fork for hanging the knuckle during repairs, thereby allowing the knuckle and knuckle pin to be conveniently stored on the coupler during the repair of the internal coupler parts.