How can I remove the factory lettering from the Dockside switcher?

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Is it possible to remove the factory lettering from the Dockside switcher without damaging the factory paint, or should I plan to repaint?

Thanks,

Kurt

2

I think someone found some kind of remover at their LHS, was it Chief? I’ve used Simple Green and a toothbrush on a car, but it was alot of work and I wasn’t super happy with the results…

3

You might be abe to remove it wth PolyScale EZLiftOff. Stuff’s kind of nasty so don’t inhale too much or allow prolonged contact with the skin. It cn be applied sparingly with a QTip and then wiped off fairly quickly with a soft cotton cloth. Several application in this manner work better than “soaking” the area for prolonged periods of time. I’d recommend testing the black paint for possible affects in an inconspicuous area to makesure it won’t melt it off either.

4

This is what I found for paint removal. The reviews are good. Castrol Superclean.I have never seen it but Walmart stocks it.

http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/p/49029/622191.aspx#622191

5

I use the castrol superclean to remove paint, so it will remove the lettering, but it may damage the painted shell as well. You may be able to go easy and remove just the lettering but it may degloss the paint in the process.

Jim

6

Thanks!

Kurt

7

EZLiftOff is meant to remove decals but it also works well on pad printed material and screen/photo masked secondary decorations. It USUALLY leaves the base cost alone if you are careful.

8

Hello Kurt…I assume this lettering your trying to remove is painted on. I have had great success using 3M automotive scratch remover on a wooden Q-tip. This process is technique sensitive, in other words- rub alittle and check your progress alot. I have used this method on Atlas, Athearn, Kato and Williams equipment. It will leave you with a polished surface of the base color which in all my applications where suitable for direct decaling. Afterwards, I applied a coat of Testor’s Dullcoat to finish the job. Good Luck!!! ED K