Uncoupling device which complies with AAR specification

An uncoupling device comprising:

• a handle pivotably mounted at the side of the car;
• said handle being connected to a bar extending transversely of the car at a level below a coupler extending out of the railway car center sill;
• an uncoupling member slidingly attached to said bar with an uncoupling connection allowing the uncoupler to slide longitudinally with respect to the bar when said coupler moves relative to said center sill and at the same time having sufficient interface with the bar that sufficient motion can be transmitted when said handle is rotated to unlock said coupler;
• said uncoupler member at its outer end including an upwardly extending portion having a hook inserted into an opening in a coupler lock lifter to disconnect coupled couplers;
• said hook portion being in continuous engagement with said lock lifter and having a portion of reduced thickness on its outer external surface to avoid interference between the coupler lifter and said hook portion when the coupler shank is rotated significantly off the centerline of the car or is moved longitudinally relative to said center sill;
• said uncoupling connection including a bearing pad made of low friction material located between said bar and said uncoupling member;
• a strap surrounding said bar and said bearing pad, whereby said bearing pad engages said strap, said bar and said uncoupling member;
• a pair of retainers respectively located at either end of said strap;
• each of said retainers being connected to said uncoupling member and said strap, and including means for maintaining said bearing pad in place solely within said strap and between said retainers;
• said bearing pad being movable with said strap and uncoupling member relative to said bar.