Keystoned Ed posted:In 2017 I posted an extensive thread ( With video) on using rows of super magnets to uncouple Kadees on the 2 rail forum.
Hi Ed,
Good job. Although occasionally dropping in for a visit, I wasn't a forum member back then (2016 was when you posted, not 2017), so I obviously missed your thread. While your method works good, you only experimented with one size of magnet. I experimented with a handful of sizes for N-scale, and came up with a fairly good solution at that time.
I was able to install the magnets in the cork roadbed, then lay the track down and ballast over them, completely hiding them from view. No disguising necessary. The end result was that the magnetic field was slightly stronger than a Micro-Trains magnet (which are fairly anemic ceramic magnets), and would activate the couplers much more reliably than the stock magnet. I even invented a gizmo that allowed me to raise and lower a set of magnets under the track in one spot on my layout, to correct a tendency of unwanted uncouplings at that spot (close to a grade).
The same ideas should work for O-scale, but obviously the magnets need to be a litter bit bigger in order for the magnetic field to reach out a little farther. 2 magnets will do it, but you have to get the couplers directly over them. A series of magnets (like you did) is good too, it simply gives a bigger target area to stop the cars over. One thing's for sure: there's pros and cons for all ideas on magnetic uncoupling, whether yours, mine, or someone else's. What works good for one situation may not be the best solution for other situations.
I still maintain that further experimenting in magnet size and placement would be good for O-scale. An on-line search should provide some suppliers of neodymium magnets in all shapes and sizes and at very reasonable prices, should anyone feel like doing some more R & D work.
Another quick thought before I forget: Even ONE magnet will work, if it's polarized properly, sized accordingly, and installed respectively. That's why Micro-Trains has only one magnet per N-scale uncoupling station. 
