Decals and Aluminum Surfaces

you can but you will also have to add a dulcoate or sealant to keep them on. I prefer Decal-Pledge w/future shine then a dulcote spray.

I think you mean Future Floor Shine now called Pledge with Future???

Is the tank car bare aluminum?? If it is you have to make sure it is very clean and use a sealer....I like Future. If it's painted then decal like any car.....but I still use some type clear over coat.

Thanks for the replies...the tank cars are painted black...so, my plan was to just decal them.  I will apply some dulcote to seal them to the car.

Excuse me...but, what's all the talk about Pledge, Future, etc?  Do you mean I should apply that stuff before I decal??

Sorry, I am not really much of a modeller.

well, just applying the decals to the black aluminum will not work!! Been there many times- you need to apply a gloss coat first or the decals will not adhere around the edges to the bare aluminum. This black aluminum color is not painted on- They will curl up ever so slightly- here's the process-

1. gloss coat the tank car sides- let dry

2. apply the decals with some type of solvaset -

3. apply a gloss coat over the top- let dry

4. apply a dull coat if you want them dull, or just leave them glossy like new cars

Decals always need to be applied to a gloss surface. Future/Pledge can be used to make a surface glossy before decals or a spray clear gloss. You will need some Walthers Solvaset too to keep the silvering out. Then after the decals are dry for a week or two a protective coat of some kind is needed. It's not hard....just remember all the steps.

Thanks Jeff, Dave, and others!

I'll see what I can do.