How can I remove the front shell of an N50

Fellow foto 'repairers'

I have a Nikon N50 that is dead. It appears to have eroded points on

one of the circuit boards inside the camera. I have managed to take

the rear, top, bottom and side coverings off, but can't remove the

front cover. The problem is the AF/M lever is connected to something

inside the camera. I tried pulling it outwards, but am afraid too

much force will damage it. I have sourced a repair manual, but that

is taking it's time. Any ideas on the steps on getting the cover off.

thanks, rob.