This procedure will detail how to remove part 1388 from the Bowser PCC without having to dissassemble the body, resolder the connecting wire to the circuit board and replace the part 1388.
Note that this procedure applies only to those PCC cars released by Bowser in 2014 with SKU numbers above 12691 and Muni F-line PCC SKUs 12451, 12461, 12550, 12561 released concurrently.
As of this time, this procedure need only be used on the power truck and only on the left side (doorless) side of the car. Note the fully assembled power truck as mounted on the car in Exhibit A.
Exhibit A
1. The first step is to remove the B-2 track brake assembly, part 1383 andplace it aside as shown in Exhibit B.
Exhibit B
2. Remove the retainer that holds in the wheel sets. There are clips at each end toward the front and rear of the car. Part 1388 is now fully accessible. The part 1388 is the part with which we will be concerned.
Exhibit C
3. Using an Xacto knife gently, pry the part 1388 over the two lugs. Do not cut or nick those lugs with the Xacto knife. The result should look as shown in Exhibit D.
Note: Some modelers may prefer to place the retainer, part back on the truck to keep the truck from coming apart.
Exhibit D
4. Unsolder the part 1388 as shown in Exhibit E from the wire shown above right. After removing the wire:
5. Remove all solder from that side of the part. ensure that the part is flat. this side will be next to the power truck gear box.
6. Prepare the other side of the part for soldering. Sand the tab carefully and tin the area as shown in Exhibit E below left.
7. Solder the wire to the other side of the part 1388.
8. Replace the part 1388 and the truck should appear as shown in Exhibit F below right.
Exhibit E
9. Reinstall the two wheelsets, the retainer clip and the prt 1383 B-2 truck sideframes and you are back in business. All other things being equal, the car should be able to negotiate 6" radius curves. All of our cars so modified did so with ease.