Decal Removal

I am wondering if anyone knows how to remove lettering off of n-scale kato engines but leaving the base paint.

If you’re sure they’re decals and not paint, I’d try a little decal solvent on the end of a Q tip to rub them off. It’s the same stuff you use to set the new decal once it’s on the model.
I’m not sure if Kato uses paint or decals though, if it’s paint you cou could try a real mild abrasive (like toothpaste cut with water) and see if they’ll scrub off. There’s a guy on Ebay that sells a product to do just that, I think his is some kind of hand cleaner like Go Jo. If you do scuff into the base paint a bit, you can coat it with gloss coat before putting hte new decals on.

There was just an article on this about a month or two ago! Check the back issues!

in the article it was pine-sol on a Q-tip

I have tried to remove the decales and they turned out to be painted on. I was able to remove them but some of the paint came off too. I decided to repaint that area. Thanks for the advice.