Changing model without replacing

[Zaio]

Hey guys, was just wondering, how can you change a units model in-game WITHOUT killing the unit? DotA has a system like this, with a courier selected you can change its model with the g hotkey, you can tell that the unit is not killed however because the micro hotkey remains, so if you set the hotkey as ctrl + 1, after changing you can just press 1 twice again and it selects the new model... the only possible way i can think of this being done is by saving the triggering courier into a hashtable, then whenever the old courier's hotkey is selected, select the new one, but im not entirely sure if that is how dota does it - So, is there a more efficient way to do this?

 

[Pharaoh_]

Unit - Replace unit (and save via hashtable the current number of ability on the replaced unit, if you use an ability list) or http://www.hiveworkshop.com/forums/general-mapping-tutorials-278/hero-passive-transformation-198482/

 

[Bannar]

It's done with 'passive transformation' method. Use custom morph ability (any of ladder morph abilities, let's say druid of the claw) and in Normal unit field enter the unit to which your target should be transformed. Adding/removing ability will now transform your unit without any side effects. Sometimes Hide/Show actions may be good option to add additionaly.

EDIT: Sorry Pharaoh_ ;S
Replace unit has ton of side effect (items, cargo, buffs, etc.) so I don't recommend such method.