American Flyer 371 restoration

[Mr. S.]

 Thanks for the advice!  I'll let you know how it goes...who knows, maybe even in pictures! 

[TRAINCAT]

Any good hobby shop will have model putty. Or, you can use J-B Weld epoxy and file it smooth when it dries. I would go to the hobby shop and look at the different brands of silver paints. You may even find an automotive paint by Duplicolor that is a good match.

Roger

[Mr. S.]

Thanks for the advice.  I just noticed a small soldering iron burn I'll have to repair before I prime it out.  What would I use to fill it in so I can sand it even with the plastic surface?

 

I'll look at the Testor's stuff...but I would like to use an airbrush if I can.

 Again, anybody have recommendations for paint that is a good match for American Flyer silver on plastic shells?

 Ok, take care!

[Sturgeon-Phish]

Strip the shell with Castrol super clean, wash well the ensure it is completly dry.  Get a plastic compatable paint, Testors works well.  Use a compatable primer.  IT will say on the label what to use.  Let it dry in a dust free room temp envoronment.  Several light mist coats is best.  Place your decals or dry transfer triming on the piece, then a top coat of clear satin or gloss, your preference.

Take your time and have fun with it.

Jim

[Mr. S.]

 Hi,

 I'm going to restore the shell for an American Flyer 371 diesel.  Couple questions:

 1.  What to strip the shell with...automotive brake fluid?  Any particular brand?

2.  Do I have to prime, and with what?  I've never primed or painted plastic before, but would like to get into it.  Thus this project.

3.  What brand of silver paint would be a good match?  I don't see any silvers on the C. Wood site, but I just looked around quickly.  I don't mind using a spray, but I have an airbrush also.

4.  I think the original 371 shell was all decals, correct (I don't have it in front of me)?  What's a good source for those?  Doesn't the paint have to have a certain finish for decals to adhere?

 

Ok, thanks for taking a look, will be eager for some opinions.  I've done lots of boiler restorations, but that's about it.