Removing lettering from locomotives

[skippygp123]

Can anyone tell me how to remove the lettering from a USA Trains locomotive (so that it can be relettered) without damaging the rest of the paint on the locomotive?

Thanks!

[wjstix]

I don't know about USA Trains per se, but I have had luck with other engines using Solvaset decal-setting solution and a moderately hard eraser (like you'd use to erase pencil marks). Just work slowly and don't try to do too much too fast.

[PJM20]

I have used isoprophyl alcohol and a stiff toothbrush with pretty good results. - Peter

[smcgill]

I have had good luck with the PURPLE degreaser from Walmart!!!

I just soak a cotton ball and set it on the # or letter     then later wipe it off.

I do rinse it when I get it all off.

Some times it takes a couple tries.

Good luck !

Sean

[skippygp123]

And none of these methods (the degreaser, the Solvaset or the alcohol) damage the paint under the lettering????

Just double-checking before I attempt this.  I don't want to ruin the underlying paint as I won't have anything to match to it and I'd hate to have to repaint the entire locomotive body.

 

[kstrong]

Unfortunately, that's the $64,000 question. I've used alcohol on one piece of equipment where it took care of the lettering and left the paint alone, but then tried it on another piece, and it did just the opposite. To see if the solvent (whatever it is) will affect the base paint, try it on a spot that won't be seen. This may be the underside where overspray from the original painting got paint or some other inconspicuous place. Once you know it won't affect the base paint, you can then see if it will affect the lettering. I've never had really great luck removing just lettering with solvents, and have usually reverted to more draconian measures.

Later,

K

[PJM20]

With alcohol, sometimes you can get away with dabbing the alcohol and brushing lightly or sometimes it just removes ll the paint. Really it depends on the age of the paint and the condition. New and good condition paint will be harder to remove and you probably could just remove the lettering. Bad paint or old paint is going to be totally stripped if you use alcohol. - Peter

[skippygp123]

Just out of curiosity, what are "more draconian measures"????

[PJM20]

60 grit sandpaper/flamethrower - Peter

[skippygp123]

Ahhhhhh....I see! 

Thanks for making me smile!

[TJ Lee]

Here is a how to on using the "purple degreaser".

http://www.mylargescale.com/Features/BuildersLogs/tabid/66/EntryID/80/Default.aspx

Let me know how it turns out.

Best,

TJ Lee