Loco Shell Removal Problem

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Embarrassing and frustrating but I need help with this one. Life Like GP38-2 shell seems to defy removal or I am missing something. Instructions are to remove coupler boxes, then two small black screws as shown in Chassis diagram, caution not to remove large brass screws (don’t know from looking how I would know they are brass and not told what major catastrophy would beset me if I did). Figure that coupler box removal was to facilitate getting to recessed black screw below them and these seem to be screws indicated on diagram to be removed. Next instruction is to hold shell on solid area between grills and pull upward to remove. Won’t happen. Pulled hard as I felt within reason without possibly damaging shell. Anyone have similar experience? Am I missing somethun’? Help. Thanks.

Don

2

I don’t know about the GP38, but on GP30, there are two screws just forward of the fuel tank.

3

Thanks for responding Jeffrey, the GP38 also has these two screws. I removed them and it was still to no avail. Since the instructions state to remove 2 screws, are you suggesting the removal of four or do you gain access just by removing these forward of fuel tank? Thanks.

Don

4

Don,
I don’t know if this will help, as I don’t have any of the GP-38s. However, on some of the other P2K models, you need to rotate the trucks a little bit, then you’ll see a screw-head peek out at you from underneath there. I hope this helps.

5

Mike, I think you are on to something. When they said small, they meant ssmmmallllll. I’ll go for it.

Thanks.

Don

6

The 2 screws in question are under the trucks next to the fuel tank.

The 2 under the coupler boxes are for the weights, put those back in.

Even then the shell is a very tight fit, and takes a little effort to remove.

Are you planning to install a decoder?

Be aware the lights are 1.5V and will blow unless you put in a resistor.

The Digitrax LO163 is specially made with resistors for P2K locos.

Also some of the numberboard lights are hooked up wrong and will fry your decoder.

Tony’s Trains has an article on how to correct this.

7

Thanks Tigerstripe. Removed the right screws, lifted shell, installed Digitrax DH163LO and everything works well. Surprised Tony didn’t advise on the number board issue. Will look up the caution you say is on his website. I have another GP38-2 that will need a decoder.

Have a goodun and have fun.

Don

8

http://http://www.tonystrains.com/technews/loconews/life-p2k-wiring2.htm

http://http://www.tonystrains.com/technews/loconews/life-p2k-wiring.htm

I had this problem with both of my GP38-2 that I got this spring, but who

know when they were made and if this is still an issue…never hurts to make sure.

Glad I could help, I’m sure you will be happy; those are some great running engines

and will pull anything you put behind them.