what kind of couplers do amtrak cars use?

Question

and do they use lift levers

Answer 1

ACE is right.

For accuracy, that which you referred to as a "lift lever" is referred to as a "cutting lever." They operate the coupling pin (not the same as the knuckle pin, which holds the knuckle in place). But, not all pins are lifted from above. There are others that are mounted below the knuckle called "under slung pins." The levers are always "lifted" but the pins they release can be either above or below.

Most of your "F" type couplers, which are usually found on inter-modal or "shelf" couplers are of the under slung variety, as well as most of those cars with end of car cushioning or sliding sill draft gear arrangements.

There is equipment where the cutting levers are secured to prevent uncoupling, as in the case of the couplers between ribbon rail cars. The levers are there, but with a "keeper" that prevents them from being uncoupled either accidentally or maliciously by anyone other than maintenance of way people.

Answer 2

Tight-lock knuckle couplers on standard equipment. Yes, there is a cut lever to release the coupler.

The Acela uses a drawbar to connect the train.

Answer 3

Strong ones!