N Scale - Remove a Life Like GP18 Shell - Plastic Frame

I have the OLD version of the Life-Like GP-18 from maybe 13 years ago. How to remove the shell so I can install a new firecracker antenna (the old one broke off) is a complete and total mystery to me. I can't see anything obvious, and the shell is so delicate I'm afraid I'll break it.

This old NP engine means a lot to me--been toting it around, but not using it except to clean the wheels, lube, and run it once a year or so, since I bought it. It runs beautifully, since it was produced during that brief, miraculous time during which Life-Like began putting out a number of incredible locomotives for reasonable prices from the old, not-yet capitalist China.

I've looked everywhere online and I can't find a thing except detailed instructions on how to install a decoder--but not how to take off the shell! I won't risk trying any harder than I already have unless I know what I'm doing: I'll just choose to live with the hole in the shell.

Does anyone know how to do this?

Cristi

 

How To remove a Life Like GP18 Shell - Plastic Frame

Very good how-to on a difficult shell removal. There are different types ow weights inside which necessitate different methods of shell removal. Also good comments on a tune up and smooth running of these old engines.

Additional search terms:

GP9 GP7 Life Like Life-Like