A method for semi-automatically reconditioning a railcar articulated connector that comprises a male portion including a parent casting material is provided. The method comprises applying weld material to a male portion of an articulated connector, mounting a housing mounting a housing defining an interior space to the male portion, the male connector within the interior space, centering and stabilizing the fixture laterally on the male portion, inserting a clamping mechanism attached to the housing within an opening of the male connector to affix the housing to the male portion, securing the clamping mechanism to a surface of the male portion, and automatically machining at least a portion of the weld and/or parent casting material.