Hello, I hope you will help me.
Several years ago I purchased an IHC 4-4-0 loco, recently I’ve been trying to install a Decoder (DZ143). I was able to get the tender apart with out any problem but I can’t get the boiler apart to get to the lighting wiring in order to connect them to the decoder. I’ve used more force than I would like to. I really do not wish to damage the loco any more than I have to. The instructions exploded view isn’t much help to me.
Will you please provide some suggestions.
You have to remove the screw above the front truck, and there are two tabs that lock into the rear cab windows that need to be popped out as well. Then the upper half of the boiler and cab should lift off.
Thank you I appreciate your prompt reply.
I actually found 6 tabs in that area under the cab windows. I removed the grab rails along the rear windows as a precaution. With a lot of prying I can get all of the tabs to disengage but the boiler and cab will not come free. I found two more tabs that are above the front truck but they don’t seem to be the problem. I’m afraid that if I use any more force I’ll break something I’ll regret.
I couldn’t understand why you were having such trouble until I did a Google search and realized we’re talking about two completely different engines. I didn’t know IHC had a more modern 4-4-0. This must be the loco you have: Mehano (IHC) H0 1:87 4-4-0 “American”.
Mine is one of the pre-1900 4-4-0’s that were originally made by Rivarossi, so I can’t help you here.