Lionel #145 Automatic Gateman Restore

I've done it -- and for the same reason as you: to repaint the base.  You have to remove the clips at the top.  I carefully pried them up using a screwdriver and needle nose pliers to grab the part that pushes against the rod.  I did not succeed in saving the clips, but instead bought replacement ones from one of the internet parts suppliers.  The clips in my #145 were already badly rusted, so destroying them to remove them didn't seem like a bad tradeoff.   The main goal for me was to get the clips off without damaging the white plastic that made up the inside top of the building.

Once the clips are off, the rods slide out easily, and building just lifts off the base with no force whatsoever.

MHKS8,

Thanks a bunch!

I just did what you said and I even managed to salvage the clips!

Now its off to sanding and strpping the base.

Thanks again!

Here's the best way to strip:  Go to WalMart and buy a gallon of that degreaser stuff that comes in the purple jug. (There are various brands--they are all the same).  The stuff is the perfect paint stripper. Just soak it over night and you will have bare metal in the morning. Works on metal and almost all plastics, and on every Lionel paint I have ever tried.