I'm customizing several engines to make them fit into my layout theme. Some have lighted number boards. How can I change numbers on lighted number boards.
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Lots of ways. Here's my personal method.
Clear off the existing numbers, usually on the outside. I print the desired number in the correct size on my laser printer white on a black background. I cut that out the size of the number board and use Tester's Clear Parts Cement to glue it on. Finally I give it a coat or two of clearcoat to seal it. I've made some that you couldn't tell from the original that way.
Thanks John. I've done it that way for unlighted number boards. In fact, I printed the numbers on peel off, stick on, labels. So, no glue to mess with. I didn't think the light would come through the paper to show the numbers if I did it that way on the lighted boards. I had thought about printing decals on clear film so that the light would show numbers through the clear film. Do you think the numbers would be too bright coming through clear film? And would decals stick to the number board lens? You've given me something to think about. Thanks for the come back John.
You could try using transparency film (overhead projector slides) instead of decals. Gently sand the back of the transparency with 1000-1500 grit paper (auto parts store). Now print the slide the same as you would the decal. The result should be a black background with frosted white numbers.
I prefer the look of the numbers coming through the white lettering, the clear ones I've seen the numbers have hot spots. I haven't tried Dan's method, but since I like the result of mine, I've never felt the need to try a different technique.
I think I'll give John's way a try.
