Applying Decals to finished locos

[devon114]

I have an unmarked PCM Big Boy and was wondering the proper way to apply the decals I got from microscale and make them look good without painting the big boy.I purchased the microscale finishing system and am not sure what I should use for best results

[otftch]

Follow the directions on the Microscale decal system.Do not omit the part that says to wash the decal adhesive.You'll need a can of Testors glosscote and a can of Testors dulcote.If you're painting a steamer mask off the area to decal and spray with glosscote.Next apply decals according the directions.Let dry for a day.WASH OFF THE MODEL.When completely dry spray again with glosscote.Wait a day.Spray now with dullcote.You will not believe the decal is not painted on.(You can use semi-gloss in place of the dullcote if you want for the final finish.)Turn the model on its side to apply decals.Use the blue solution on the model then add the decal.Next use the red solution.Now you can move the decal to straighten it.I have used this procedure for years and every detail shows though the decal with no edges or silvering showing.Don't skimp on the second coat of glosscote or the drying times.It is a time consuming process but the results are worth it.

     If you can remove the shell of the engine you can paint the whole thing and the area won't show.If you tape off an area ,try to tape around a panel line and if different it won't be noticeable.You can check out my trains and model aircraft at this site to see the results of my work                http://community.webshots/user/otftch

[ChiefEagles]

Not familiar with the Red and Silver.  I do use their decal solvant numerous times to actually melt the decal into the surface.  Then spry with dulcote.

[otftch]

Sometimes when you omit the second coat of glosscote the decal edges will be visible when you dullcote.This is what we call silvering.The blue solution wets the area and prepares it to let the red solution work better.I have built over three thousand plastic models and the steps I use always give superior results.People usually ask how I painted the lettering,and don't believe I use decals.Like I said, time consuming but worth the trouble and the extra expense.

                                                                            Ed

[jefelectric]

Ed, Your link doesn't work for me.

[otftch]

Sorry about that.Here is the correct link to my photos :

                http://community.webshots.com/user/otftch

                                                                             Ed

[dwiemer]

Ed, took a look at your photos....impressive work.  While I am not currently in a position to use the ideas above, I am sure I will be before long.  Thanks for sharing.

Dennis