Bachmann Spectrum HO J 4-8-4 DCC Train Tender

[ScottB]

I have a Bachmann Spectrum HO J 4-8-4 DCC Train that I am converting to Sound DCC.  I also have a Bachmann Spectrum HO J 4-8-4 DCC Train with Sound, but since I have the non sound one, I am converting it to sound.  My question is:  When I try to take the tender apart, the bottom seems connected to the top of the tender.  It would seem that the coal load covers the screws to disconnect the top from the bottom.  I have tried to gently pull the coal load off, like I have been able to in other Bachmann Spectrum HO trains I've converted, but it doesn't want to move.  Any one have any ideas or know how to remove the coal load on a Bachmann Spectrum HO J 4-8-4 DCC Train?