Wondering how to remove rivet detail from a metal engine. Buff it off with a dremel? Hand sand it down? Any shared experience would be appreciated.
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It is very difficult. I have used a Dremel cutoff wheel and a magnifying glass. It takes a very steady hand. A riffler file can also be used. If it is more than, say, ten, I would not attempt it. I have reduced the size on a Scale Craft tender with a sanding block, but totally getting rid of them is tough.
I have also used a nail set on embossed brass, but it needs to be followed up with the riffler. Be careful.
"Wondering how to remove rivet detail from a metal engine. Buff it off with a dremel? Hand sand it down? Any shared experience would be appreciated."
It depends on where the rivets are located, how big, how many, and what kind of metal they are, etc? If they are in an easy to get to spot you might start with a bench grinder to knock off the bulk then finish with something smaller like a dremel disc or stone. If the metal is soft a file might be the easiest way. If they are in a hard to work on spot a tiny stone in a dremel and lots of patience might be needed. A sharp chisel could work in some spots or a machinist's scraper in others? Post a photo of the project if you can and you'll get more specific advice.....DaveB
As a semi professional modeler, I would absolutely use a Dremel Tool for removing rivet details. I have done this before. Time consuming, but worth the time if you take your time and do it right. After all, you only get one shot at this and that is that. When one works with metal, it becomes far more necessary to take ones time. Anyway, I use a Dremel Tool for all my modeling detailing. Works very well with the sort of job you are looking at doing.
Just my 2 cents and best of luck with the project.
Pete
