I just bought this ALCO Models, E-44 Pennsy Undecorated GE Electric Loco at an Estate sale ! I just pulled it out of the box, I did run it, runs fine.
But it has this STUFF on it ! The thing looks brand new, look at the trucks, no wear ! Just what IS this stuff ? I’m thinking maybe the foam disintigrated ? Which IS true, because it does fall apart in my hands, I through the top layer away. But that still doesn’t make sence!
The stuff looks like tar, maybe a bizzar attempt at detailing? I just don’t know !
So, how do I clean it ? I’m actually to chicken to clean it myself ! Anyone know of someone who does this sort of thing ? I’m in MAss, I could always ship it out ! Ideas ?
You are correct about foam. I would soak it in some vinegar and scrub it with a toothbrush. My next step if that didn’t work would be to use a light abrasive like bar keepers friend wioith a toothbrush. I chose vinegar in the first step to clean any tarnish also.
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I had that problem with an Alco Models C-630 diesel. I was going to paint it anyway, so I just used a fine brass wirewheel with the Dremel and cleaned it up with soap and water. Through the paint, you’d never know there was foam disentegration and discoloration!
If your planning on painting your model a through cleaning as discribed above should suffice, on the other hand if your looking for that polished brass look might I suggest using a soda blaster or a bead blaster,followed by a good clear coat to seal it.
One thing that supposedly works is to soak the brass parts in Pine-Sol. You’d have to take the whole thing apart first, then put the brass parts in something like a bread pan. Open the Pine-Sol, and pour it in until you’ve completely covered the parts. Cover the pan so you don’t stink up the place.
Let this sit for at least 24 hours. After that, try scrubbing with a toothbrush or some other non-abrasive brush. If that doesn’t work, put it in for another day. Eventually, the gunk should come off. The nice thing is that Pine-Sol will not damage the brass at all. It could soak in it for a week and nothing will happen to the brass.
Except for a wonderful pine scent as the loco moves around the layout. I suggest modeling a pine forest logging road or a road that goes through a tightly confinded RR corridor through a pine forest.