Darkening shiny steamer rods?

[49Lionel]

I know I've seen this posted before - what is the name of the product that can dull the shiny look of steam locomotive rods and rims?  As I recall, it should be easily reversible.

[pbjwilson]

I dont know, but sounds interesting.

On some of my old Hafner wind-ups and Marx engines I've used "Rub 'n Buff" to make them shiny. Making them dull or darkening them, dont know.

[chuck]

NeoLube

[jefelectric]

If you need a source.

http://www.ares-server.com/Ares/Ares.asp?MerchantID=RET01229&Action=Catalog&Type=Product&ID=83181

[ChiefEagles]

Gun bluing or the Brownell Epoxy gun finsih.

[Anonymous]

I have and use NeoLube. It does work nicely but is not permanent. This can be good and bad. I usually find it wearing off in areas and having to touch it up. The touch-up's blend nicely though. Also, it seems nearly impossible to keep it adhered to the more complex assemblies around the valve gear and cylinders. The friction just takes it off pretty quickly.
Mike

[chuck]

Diluted black acrylic paint carefully washed on will be more permanent than NeoLube but can be removed with rubbing alcohol if you decide you don't like it. 

BE CAREFUL, neolube is a lubricant and it gets into a moving part it won't cause any real damage (might even help ).  The same can't be said for paint, even if it is water based.  If you gum up linkages with hardened paint you could be in for some serious repair work/expenses.

[49Lionel]

Thanks guys - it's just what I was thinking of.