I purchased my Grandson an HO set.
I need to replace the E-Z mate coupler 78005. When I search the internet to make a purchase that particular numbered coupler does not appear. Other models do.
Is there a replacement number for that coupler?
Thks.
That model is even sold out on Bachmann's own store page.
Looks like you need a medium length, center-shank coupler. You can try using a Kadee HO 'Standard head' Whisker coupler, some of my cars have those and work well with my Bachmann E-Z Mates.
Edit: I just realized that model is for the original E-Z Mate line, they've been replaced with the E-Z Mate Mark II.
Look up Bachmann part number 78025, that appears to be in stock at several sites.
Here are some 78005's.
http://magichobbiesonline.com/index.php/trains/bachman/78005-e-z-mate-knuckle-coupler-center-shank-med-12-ho.html (http://magichobbiesonline.com/index.php/trains/bachman/78005-e-z-mate-knuckle-coupler-center-shank-med-12-ho.html)
https://www.powerhobby.com/model-trains/ho-scale/bachmann.html?cat=82 (https://www.powerhobby.com/model-trains/ho-scale/bachmann.html?cat=82)
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Bachmann-78005-HO-E-Z-Mate-Knuckle-Coupler-Center-Shank-Med-2/382688396545?epid=1700611176&hash=item591a018501:g:0MYAAOSwDEBcHniX (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Bachmann-78005-HO-E-Z-Mate-Knuckle-Coupler-Center-Shank-Med-2/382688396545?epid=1700611176&hash=item591a018501:g:0MYAAOSwDEBcHniX)
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Bachmann-78005-HO-EZ-E-Z-Mate-Knuckle-Couplers-2-Center-Shank-Medium/183617656833?hash=item2ac0771801:g:4JcAAOSwNUlb3NwW (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Bachmann-78005-HO-EZ-E-Z-Mate-Knuckle-Couplers-2-Center-Shank-Medium/183617656833?hash=item2ac0771801:g:4JcAAOSwNUlb3NwW)
78005 is old style magnetically operated knuckle coupler with plastic closer replaced by Model/Item 78025 E-Z Mate Mark II Center Shank – Medium magnetically operated knuckle coupler with metal coil springs
Caveat -- Bachmann online store shows Model 78025 as being 12 pair per card at $30.00 while other on line retailers list Item 78025 as 1 pair per card $2.00 or less.
Bachmann online store uses label "Model" else where label "Item" is used.
The cards are perforated in blister packs of a pair, I believe.
In general, Metal knuckle couplers are better than plastic. And on plastic knuckle couplers, it's best to keep the knuckle closed with a metal coil spring. Cheaper couplers have a little springy plastic finger instead. Cheaper to produce but quick to wear out, leading to operational failures.