I have the n Acela Express with the 2 dummy engines and the power car. Is there anyway to change the couplers to something less unique? Also, I would ask the same question for the HO version.
To answer the second question first, the HO version is easy to convert using either Bachmann (Model: 78035) or Kadee NEM shank knuckle couplers. Just pop the supplied draw bars out, and slip the NEM shank couplers in.
The N version, may be doable, but there are no conversions listed anywhere I can find. There is some info on improving the operational characteristics of the N Acela here: http://www.spookshow.net/loco/bachmannacela.html (http://www.spookshow.net/loco/bachmannacela.html)
Since the Acela pretty much operates as a 'Unit Train', I suspect being able to couple/uncouple cars and locos wasn't real high on the designers list. If you have the curves for it, it is a nice looking train.
Len