American Flyer 661 refurbish

[Sturgeon-Phish]

Refurbishing another AF. The 356 is done and turned out pretty good. My next project is an aluminum bodied 661. The shell is dull, no scratches, and should buff out. The window inserts have slipped, and one wheel is chipped. Here's my question, what should I use to buff the aluminum shell. How is the best way to remove the bottom to re-glue the windows or is there a better way? I assume I can spread the trucks enough to replace the wheel. I posted this about a month ago and no one responded so I'll try again. My biggest concern is I remember reading somewhere that the bottoms don't come off as eaily as it apears, so before I get started, I'm doing a little research.
Thanks, the advice on the 356 was a great help

[arnoldafl]

Sorry no one responded earlier. I can't help on the buffing but perhaps can on removing the bottom of the car. There are two pairs of screws at each end of the car. One of the pair is on top and the other on the bottom. They hold the cast end pieces on. Remove them and the end pieces, then slide the bottom out the length of the car. You may have to slightly spread the car to relieve any pressure on the bottom chassis. Once you get the bottom out, try aluminum polish on the inside of the body to see how it works.

If you have to replace an axle and wheels, be careful not to spread the side frames of the trucks too far. The side frames are attached with very small rivets which can pull out.

[Sturgeon-Phish]

Thanks! You are confirming the procedure and cautions I had read before. Now for the buffing ? ? ? ?
Jim

[Sturgeon-Phish]

Finally got the 661 done and it looks great, if I may say so. After removing the ends and silhouettes and the and diffusers I used Castrol Aluminum Wheel cleaner then polished with McGuire's car wax. The silhouettes were distorted so I soaked them in hot water then pressed them beween two FLAT heavy surfaces till dry and they flatened right out. I'm really pleased with the results and it looks great going around the pike behind the 356, with the 660, 662 and 663.