Cleaning a Genesis SD70M

[ArtOfRuin]

I just bought a used Athearn Genesis Union Pacific SD70M (run-through power) for $65. The body is in good shape, it runs really well and even has a decoder in it (though I don't use DCC. The LHS proprietor set it up for DC operation for me). It needs a slight bit of rehabbing, though. The handrails have been painted white on the ends and the paint is now flakeing off. There's a white streak of paint on the nose, as if the last owner painted the handrail while it was on the model. That's an easy enough fix with some touch-up paint and a new nose wing decal. The trucks are, however, filled with carpet fibers (I think. I hope...). Any tips on how best to clean the trucks? Also, does anyone make replacement handrails/stanchions for an SD70M or should I use wire? The stock Athearn ones are really flimsy...

[1181 BNSF]

Hi Jon,

   I noticed your avatar has a Guilford engine. Are you from Maine? Anyhoo, I too am trying to figure out how to clean my trucks on a Kato ES44AC. Apparently the trucks on my Kato don't come off like the Athearns did.