Williams semi-scale 4-6-2 plastic tender

 You might want to try. Mr Clean Magic Eraser . When in doubt. I wet sand with super fine 800 grit sandpaper. Don't over sand and take off any revit detail. At least to take the edges off the lettering. You will need some gloss as a base for the decals anyways. One coat of gloss back should cover the lettering. After the decals are applied. You can clear it as to the finish you want.

Yes, removal of paint and lettering from plastic pieces is not recommended - though brake fluid usually works, I hear. Some swear by strong dtergent mix left several days. Tried it - no effect in my case.

Get some "sanding film" (Testors sells it) - it's very fine sand "paper" (plastic film), up to 1200 grit or better, as I recall. I'm not near mine right now. Just sand the lettering to knock down the edges and paint over it. Sand a bit more if needed. Paint again and move on.

If it's the one I have I used 97% Isopropyl alcohol to take the paint off.

I modified mine to look like a Seaboard P-1 Pacific:

I have 2 Williams brass USRA Pacifics and this semi-scale engine is smaller, but it's just right for the smaller SAL class P-1!!!

I got the alcohol at Rite Aid.  I made a "tank" out of a length of PVC pipe with a pipe cap glued on one end to keep the alcohol in.  It takes a while but it works and I didn't notice any problems with the plastic.

Bob,

After removing the original numbers did you just prep the decal area with a gloss black, set the decal, and then sprayed the entire tender side with a clear sealer?  Guess I'm inquiring what your process was. Your Williams is the same one I have.

I use a chunk of Magic Eraser soaked in Lectric Shave to remove painted markings.  Be sure to rinse the tender shell thoroughly after doing so! 

Mitch

Rockyroad posted:

Bob,

After removing the original numbers did you just prep the decal area with a gloss black, set the decal, and then sprayed the entire tender side with a clear sealer?  Guess I'm inquiring what your process was. Your Williams is the same one I have.

I removed all the paint first, most commercial paint jobs are too thick and hide the details.

Then gloss paint, decals, gloss clear to help hide the decal edges, then maybe flat clear depending on the look I want. I've been using Testors glosscote and flatcoat but they're too thick and tend to hide the details a bit too.  I need to look for something not as thick next time.

Thanks for all the replies.  Now all I need to do is put on my "Git'er  Done"  T-shirt and go to work!!!