Well, this mystery remains unsolved. Harry Henning got back to me and offered 150-26, a tab and slot coupler like what I've already tried. If indeed this was the coupler used, I'm surprised Lionel would sell it that way. On the other hand, I understand that the Winner line was a very cheap depression era product, so who knows. Maybe that's why all of the couplers were missing and I found remnants of rope left on the axles.
It's a nice little set and it reminds me of the Chicago Aurora & Elgin that used to run in the suburbs of Chicago, where I live. I'll probably fabricate something, but I prefer to keep it original.
Any suggestions?
