Factory-applied paint removal

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Where can I get reliable information regarding the safe and effective removal of factory-applied paint on rolling stock or locos. I’m sure I read info regarding this question somewhere on this forum; or perhaps a past issue of MR. Any tips or suggestions as to how best to remove factory-applied lettering/logos? Thanks,

G’ Flash

2

I find that 91% alcohol is good for a full paint strip in most cases. For removing decals and lettering I use non-acetone fingernail polish remover and a pencil eraser. It takes some time and care but it usually gets the job done.

3

I used brake fluid to remove the hideous UP armour yellow paint from some passenger cars for a project. Soaked them for a couple of hours then a soft brushing with an old toothbrush worked well. However I had a hard time removing paint and decals from others with SF pullman green paint. I used alcohol sprayed on some freight cars to dull and weather the factory paint with good results.

4

I have a sure-fire way to remove the paint from any model railroad shell: Use 91% Isopropyl rubbing alcohol. It’s cheep, and can be found in almost any Wal-Mart or other store that has pharmicutical supplies (Did I spell that right?) The only thing I must warn you about is this: Make sure you have all clear parts (headlights, windows, etc.) as well as any electronic parts removed from the shell (the electrical parts should be obvious) and that you have an air-tight container that’s a little larger than the largest shell you plan to remove paint from (This will save on the ammount of alcohol used, and will allow you to save the unused stuff for the future).

Leave the shell to sit for about 30-60 minutes to ensure that the paint is well-loosened. It should come off the shell so good, you can even see a perfect replica of the molded-on details. Infact, if you are careful with removing the paint, you could probably piece it back together on the locomotive[(-D] But, I doubt you would want to do that .

I hope this helps

5

… just because you´d asked for it - it is spelled pharmaceutical [:D]

Thanks for the tip!