(Note from the author: I thought about just posting this in my ongoing layout build thread, but only a few of you read that, and this is something that might help those of you that model but have no interest in my layout thread, so thought I'd post it here.) I suspect all of us diesel modelers have some engines with acetyl/Delrin type plastic handrails. These are great in that they are flexible and durable. They're not so hot when it comes time to paint/alter color because of their flexibility. I am in the process of painting an undec Atlas Gold RS-1 into a black scheme. ALL of the handrails were cast in light gray. I know if I paint with conventional model paints, there can be flaking as a result of handling. Yes, I've heard of wonder paints that can be applied in such a situation, but the nearest hobby shop is some 3 hrs away, and there's no guarantee it would have any in stock/etc. So I took the matter into my own hands and decided to try something besides paint that's commonly available. This is the result: I used a "Sharpie" brand "Extreme" black marker pen to color dye the above. Once the application had a few seconds/minutes to dry, I rubbed the test shot with my fingers as well as bending into a pretzel shape. Zero wear or flaking issues. SO, I set about applying the ink/dye to all of the gray hand rails for my black RS-1. I foresee no issues using this technique. (Note: After posting this to another forum, it has been brought to my attention that alcohol may act as a solvent on the ink. Thus, I will resist any craving I may have to soak it in alcohol.) Also, I understand Sharpie makes these markers in colors as well. I'm now considering seeing if I can find a blue that's close to my custom mix "Gulf Coast Blue" paint I use for my KC&G blue/gray engines and experiment with coloring gray handrails in blue for the blue/gray KC&G engines that are in the pipeline. Anyway, thought I'd pass this along to y'all in case it may be of use to you in your modeling. Andre
