MTH Painting over Brass Valves

Would be very easy to paint with brass model paint. The “brass” on a real steamer wouldn’t look shiny for long anyway. JohnA

Not sure there is an easy method. I would try and remove them first. The risk is cracking the paint where it meets the boiler. Having stripped a few MTH boilers, parts like that have a post the sticks through the shell and is bent over. Some then have epoxy covering that extension which has to be pried away. Not a big deal if plan to repaint but more difficult if you want to not damage the paint.

Pete

Thanks guys. I might try painting it, but have not decided. These engines run and sound amazing with great detail. So not complaining, just looking at ways to make the valves pop a little more.. pun intended lol

For a good look, try some old school Testor’s gloss gold enamel, very slightly thinned with enamel reducer. Test on some scrap parts first. I’d leave the underlying black in place, and just use the gold to “ highlight “ whistle heads, pop off valves, etc. The highlighted look will look like a slightly tarnished brass, and can be easily done. Mask off surrounding surfaces with masking tape. Test on some scrap parts, old screws you may have lying around, etc…..when doing a repaint, this is my preferred method, as I’m not risking any damage to the components, or surrounding finishes,…..thin the gold to your taste. Just remember, the thinner you make it, the easier it will flow, so be prepared, test and know what you’re working with….

Pat

Thank you Pat. I will try that method and will test it on spare parts first.