Lionel MPC Era Passenger Cars

I believe those cars have the window glass cast as part of the roof.  Two windows on each side protrude and lock into the window frames keeping the roof on.  Look closely and you should be able to determine which four windows need to be pushed in to free the roof.  Do a search on this topic and you should find several threads showing different ways to accomplish this.

http://cs.trains.com/ctt/f/95/p/201735/2357136.aspx

Thanks guys!  Between both answers, I was able to open one of these up.  Unfortunately, the bulbs are a kind I don't have LED replacements for.  I suppose another search is needed to see if there are any like these.  I have both single bayonet and screw-in types, but these are different.  Anyway, I now know how to get into the interior.

Bob, where are you getting the single bayonet and screw in LED replacement bulbs? Thank you!

Those cars are infamous for the reason you describe. People have been complaining about them for forty years!

This question is SO frequently asked here on the Forum.. the full thread with answers should be put on top as a "sticky."

Bob, if your hands are nimble & dexterious, grab the car from the bottom with both hands then squeeze "inward and up" with both thumbs & forefingers on the two windows on each side that you can see have an outward projection toward its top that lets the opaque window/roof assembly to CLICK into place.   The design is a royal pain.  (Both thumbs on one side of the car... both forefingers on the other.)  To avoid permanent damage to your car, ignore the instructions from some who say you should insert thin metal shims on each side to get the roof off!)

Bob & others:

Here are the Lionel Instruction sheets which include an illustration for removing the roof plus a parts drawing and a parts list.

Bill

  I always use ice cream sticks.   ( hint : eat ice cream first )

TexasSP posted:

Bob, where are you getting the single bayonet and screw in LED replacement bulbs? Thank you!

I originally bought the screw-in bulbs off eBay, but NEVER used any of them (I bought about 200).  the reason I never used them is that I didn't check what type of bulbs are used in the passenger cars.  Turns out, most of the cars use the single bayonet type bulb.  You can purchase either from Town and Country Hobbies in Pennsylvania.  They have a website.  The bulbs are $60 for fifty plus shipping and tax if you are in PA.  I think the screw-in bulbs are a bit more expensive, but if you need some, let me know, and I'll make you a great deal.  

Jon

Jon....that is fantastic!'

Peter

Thanks! 

Jon

Jon, really well done. And that voice! Have you ever considered a career in radio? 

Mack

KOOLjock1 posted:

Jon

Haha! Great how-to and even better laugh. Thanks for doing this. 

JD

Jon,  Job well done.  It is a good thing when guys like yourself share.