[double00]

I have found on several occasions that the coupling metal hook arm, detaches itself from the plastic body of the coupling.
It would be preferred if Manufacturers used a stronger type of material, or even better if the plastic body was made from steel as it was several years ago. At present the coupling's metal hook, detaches easily and requires awkward fiddling to re-assemble making the thin fragile plastic body to snap on one part.
I have no doubts that plastic material is much cheaper than using steel. Using steel, would certainly make modeller's life more pleasureable.

 

[double00]

I am unable to accept that a substanrial difference in price between the flimsly plastic and more robust metal coupling exists.
Certainly if a replacement metal coupling was made available by the manufacturer, I for one would obtain one or two and prepared to pay for them, rather as at the moment left with a broken coupling and disabled rolling stock.

It is apparent in that few model manufacturers show little interest or listen to modellers comments, and suggestions etc. At the end of the day, we modellers (except the must have at any cost) generate the sale of their products.

 

[double00]

The couplings that I refer too, are fitted to Heljan diedel models. In fairness, contacting Heljan direct, Heljan have several times replaced complete couplings FOC. I find that the metal hook part detaches from the plastic body of the coupling and has proved a nightmare job to refit the metal hook small cut out into the plastic body of the coupling - in all probability it is the fitting that causes the splitting.