Removing Passengers?

Have you tried using a hair dryer?

The figures are secured with whatever glue MTH used. Hair dryer is an interesting idea, thanks.

Please keep us updated on the results.  I've got a bunch of MTH cars I want to pull the people out of as well.

I believe Amtrak uses a special type of crowbar.

Are you talking about MTH cars, or Lionel/K-Line? The latter used hot glue that has a tendency to fail. In all three cases, however, I'd try a little gentle lifting/twisting first to see how firmly the figure is still fixed in place. Lionel and K-Line used figures from the same source, which are rubbery/flexible, and will come off without a lot of effort although there will be glue residue on the figure or seat. MTH figures are generally rigid (and better made) and tougher to remove such that you might have to resort to the crowbar (or a small palette knife/ spreader, preferably metal).

@Hancock52 posted:

Are you talking about MTH cars, or Lionel/K-Line? The latter used hot glue that has a tendency to fail. In all three cases, however, I'd try a little gentle lifting/twisting first to see how firmly the figure is still fixed in place. Lionel and K-Line used figures from the same source, which are rubbery/flexible, and will come off without a lot of effort although there will be glue residue on the figure or seat. MTH figures are generally rigid (and better made) and tougher to remove such that you might have to resort to the crowbar (or a small palette knife/ spreader, preferably metal).

MTH and my 1st attempt was a wiggle and there was no give. So that scared me off because knowing me, it would be an all around disaster if I tried force. As it was, it was a bit of a hassle closing back up the cars. Lights didn’t work at first, my thumb pushed in a window pane. It was an hour ordeal really to just get back to where I started. My rose colored thought was this: the MTH figures in my Fleet of Modernism passenger set (servicemen, a 1940s theme overall) are very well done but nearly impossible to find. I’d remove them, cast them, paint them (both of which I know how to do and enjoy) and make multitudes to populate my cars.

Try some nail polish remover.  Test it on several figures. If a type of super glue was used, the NPR just may break the bond and it shouldn't do damage to the seat.

That's a nice set, but seems like a lot of trouble to duplicate them.  Maybe they will be produced again some day.

I have removed exactly one MTH figure from a passenger car.  I suspect it was held in by CA glue.  it was a standing figure and I was able to break the bond, but it left a mark on the floor.

If they don't have a ticket, that's a good way to remove them. ......oh wait wrong forum. Never mind.

@Madlove posted:

MTH and my 1st attempt was a wiggle and there was no give. So that scared me off because knowing me, it would be an all around disaster if I tried force. As it was, it was a bit of a hassle closing back up the cars. Lights didn’t work at first, my thumb pushed in a window pane. It was an hour ordeal really to just get back to where I started. My rose colored thought was this: the MTH figures in my Fleet of Modernism passenger set (servicemen, a 1940s theme overall) are very well done but nearly impossible to find. I’d remove them, cast them, paint them (both of which I know how to do and enjoy) and make multitudes to populate my cars.

I think these are the exact cars I want to yank the people out of.  Not good to hear they are pretty well in there.  Guess I need to get one open and get with my brother who is a big detail modeler and see if he has any ideas from his kitbashing/custom build experience.

@sinclair posted:

I think these are the exact cars I want to yank the people out of.  Not good to hear they are pretty well in there.  Guess I need to get one open and get with my brother who is a big detail modeler and see if he has any ideas from his kitbashing/custom build experience.

Here’s a pic of the open military car. If your brother is successful, please let me know.