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Shell Removal for Engine Repair
John seeks help from others in the hobby:
“How do you take an HO engine shell off to make repairs. I’ve tried but to no avail and I do not want to break the plastic body.”
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I have had the same question myself. I’ve found that most shells (on diesel-electrics) are held on by pegs mounted on the frame. In this case, you’d pull the shell out a bit near the middle while pulling down on the frame. Use the fuel tanks as a grip. Might use a small screwdriver to pry between the fram and the shell to help locate the tabs and pegs. Be gentle. Some engines have screws((usually four) through the bottom of the fuel tanks that go up into the shell. Unscrew ande lift off the frame. In either case watch the front and rear couplers for clearance.
As Larry said, hidden pegs, or hidden screws under couplings, under bogie frames, or even down funnels! If you can find the model number, then get the service sheet, it will tell you where and how.