How do I remove the shell to get to the moter?
Pull.
David B
Why do you have to get to the motor?
Shell removal of Atlas N scale locomotives is fairly straight forward. I’ve done it many times for decoder installation or general maintenance, including the SD60M.
Remove the fuel tank molding, exposing the bottom of the chassis casting. It’s just a snap fit. Note the ends of the tank molding, one end has a deeper relief and only re-installs one way.
Grip the exposed metal chassis casting with thumb and forefinger, finger tips close to the bottom of the plastic shell.
Pulling your thumb and finger tips into your palm causes your finger nails to press the shell up gently releasing it from the tabs holding it in place.
Removing the shell is then just a matter of slipping it the rest of the way off.
Be sure to note the positioning of the shell (front/rear) in relation to the chassis casting, it only fits one way.
I hope this is helpful.