New with the "C" series "Commander" model Shuttlewagon is the urethane impact cushioned AAR type sliding coupler. This new style coupler offers many advantages over previous pin type rotating coupler systems. The cushioning effect of the urethane pillow blocks is greatly enhanced, reducing both coupling impact shock loads as well as rail movement vibration from being passed into the vehicle though the couplers. The coupler knuckle now slides from side to side along a lubricated plate. This increases the lateral range of movement of the coupling mechanism permitting movement through tighter curves without risk of binding the couplers.

The coupler is air activated for coupler release, hydraulically positionable from side to side for coupling and auto locking to engage. Because the coupler is a direct connect type coupler similar to a locomotive¼s which does not borrow weight from the attached railcar the coupler faces are free to move vertically against each other to accommodate for rail level inconsistencies, there are no additional hydraulic hoses or cylinders to crowd the coupling mechanism. This reduces potential pinch points and provides more room for connecting the train air brake system.

By not having to borrow weight from the attached railcar this coupler can couple to the newer long faced railcar couplers now being introduced by the railroads on some types of railcars without any modifications.