Removing lettering from Lionel?

[Anonymous]

I have a recent issue, lower end Lionel Penn RS-3 that I want to re-tag to a different line. I can't tell if the Penn lettering is paint or decals. It doesn't appear to be a one piece decal. What's the easiest/safest way to remove the Penn lettering without hurting the finish?

[csxt30]

Sorry I can't help, but thought I'd bump it up so some one else who knows will see it. ( I think The Chief will know ! )
Thanks,

[jefelectric]

I was wondering the same thing. Have some PRR flat cars all with the same road number that I would like to change to different road numbers.

[Anonymous]

You can TRY to use PolyScale EZ LiftOff. Most of the logos and lettering on modern toy trains are painted on, either by transfer pads, or by photo etched masks. You can test the removal on the inside of the shell. Test to make sure you aren't harming the background paint/finish.

Do not dunk or soak the item in this stuff. Use sparingly in a well ventilated environment and keep the stuff off of your skin. Q-Tips or cotton balls are the best way to apply the stuff. Do not leave it on the surface for too long.

[traindaddy1]

Along the same trend. Does anyone know of a vendor that might supply stickers to go over the logos. The sticker would in effect change the "Line" and, if desired at a later date, to be removed easily to return to the original.

[scottsmith]

I have done quite a few of these. I take a very, very fine sanding sponge--Norton 320 Ultra fine grit, avaiable at Home Depot. I rub light across the top of the lettering.Just enough to get the first overcoate layer off. Then I lightly rub with Model Master Lacquor Thinner. YOu can use cotton balls. a soft cloth or just your fingers. Rub it until the letter disappears---take your time this is not a rush job.
Here is a Standard Guage car that was Wye River--it is now after rettering Tygart Creek.:


THis was a Virginia & Truckee water car and caboose--now they are deepwater and tidewater.:

Scott Smith

[Dave Farquhar]

Wear gloves and work in a ventilated area when working with any type of lacquer thinner. The active ingredient in it is MEK, which the body readily absorbs, and it attacks the liver and is also linked to cancer.

[Jumijo]

Try using non-acetone nail polish remover. I've had great success with it removing tampo printing from die cast toy cars.