Hornby & Bachmann couplings ?

It depends what you mean by "compatible". Bachmann and Hornby couplings (barring the odd issue with incorrect hights on certain models) will inter-operate.

However, the actual couplings are not necessarily swapable between Hornby and Bachmann stock. For example, Bachmann and Hornby both have a coupling which fits into a triangular recess and provides a pivoted tention-lock coupling, but the two are not interchangeable, because (from memory), the bachmann version is slightly larger than Hornby's.

Adrian

"Adrian" wrote

The hook on Hornby's mini-tension-lock coupler is a little longer than the one fitted to Bachmann stock, with the result that when coupled together only one of the hooks is operational. Not really a problems it does mean that coupling and uncoupling is more of a problem.

Both use NEM coupler pockets in many recent applications which means you should be able to fit both types to either brand's products, but of course, older Hornby products now have more coupler types than ever with many items from the Lima range having been included without any change to couplers. You can still find older Hornby items in current production with the metal Tri-ang type coupler, moulded-on plastic versions of the same, the ex-Airfix/Dapol versions and the list goes on.

It beggars belief that Hornby cannot (or will not) standardise on one single coupler type.

John.

........oh how I long for the simple days, when the Hornby Dublo, Trix and Peco couplings not only worked well together but were relatively unobtrusive, allowed the "hand in the sky" to remove a selected wagon/coach and, if one vehicle derailed the rest of the train didn't.

David Costigan

Perhaps the closest 'common' coupling to that today is the Kadee (or it's variants from other manufacturers).