Many miners are surprised to know that couplers can be tested through the use of go / no-go gauges in addition to visual examinations. In doing a visual examination, you should look for cracks in components, excessive wear, and broken or bent parts. If any of these conditions are found, the coupler should be taken out of service and repaired immediately. Pictured below is an example of a template measuring the wear and distortion for a specific type coupler. Templates can be obtained to match your mines specific coupler through commercial retailers.
For additional information on inspection procedures, click on this link (You must have Power Point to view the demonstration.).
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