I bought a new old stock Bachmann Spectrun 2-8-0 that is undecorated. I have the Frisco K4 decals for it and will probably number it 1247 as it is one of the locos that my Grandfather was on. I have the Micro-Sol and Micro-Set for the decals. The paint is matte on the loco and tender. Do I need to spray a gloss coat where the decals will go, or can I install them on the existing finish? Thank You!
*user redacted misinformation* Here's a reference photo of 1247 for ya http://frisco.org/mainline/wp-conte...uri-on-March-5-1950-Arthur-B.-Johnson-BLW.jpg
Thank You for your reply. I am a little intimidated as I don't want to mess up the engine. The finish looks good as is. Thank you for the photo. I haven't seen that one. Does the tender have extended sides and a doghouse or is that something behind the tender? My Grandfather was a fireman on that engine in 1917. Thanks again.
If the finish (especially on the tender) is as smooth as it appears, you can probably get away with applying them directly. You just have to be sure the setting solvent gets underneath the decal, otherwise the decal will look "cloudy." If that happens, just poke holds with a SHARP point (like a new Xacto blade) and keep applying solvent until you can no longer see film. If the finish is not as smooth as it appears, I'd hit it with Glosscote first and then follow up with Dullcote after everything is dry. GS
Myself, I find it much easier, and have had much more success applying decals to a smooth glossy finish. Also a coat of gloss is applied after the decals are set and dry to seal them, then dullcote, weathering and such. Another decal setting solution is Walthers Solvaset, I think it is a little stronger the the Micro finishes. Make sure you keep enough water under the decals to slide/move them where you want them and straight. Using too mush Microset under them too quick and the decals may soften and distort while you are positioning the decals. It is not difficult, you will be fine at doing it. Don't forget the decals on the sand dome. Typically the water capacity is centered towards the top, rear of the tender too. Don't get discouraged if you mess up a decal, I have done literally hundreds of decals on locomotives and rolling stock, and I still mess one up once in a while. If I were you, maybe start with the smaller decals first to get familiar with the process. Don't get in a hurry, once you get the decal where you want it carefully slide a small piece of paper towel up to the edge of the decal using capillary action to suck the excess water out from under the decal, let it set for a while then start gently applying the setting solutions with a soft brush. But be sure to let the decal dry before additional applications of setting solutions, I do exactly as Greg Stout said and use a #11 Exacto blade to pop bubbles if any. Have fun and post images of your efforts.
Thank you for the detailed reply. I really appreciate it. I will follow GS and your advice. I do have a couple of cars to repaint and decal. I may do as Patrick said and practice on them first, I can always repaint them again. Thanks again.
Thank You! I like this idea. I do have a couple of boxcars to repaint and decal for the Frisco. If I do mess them up, can repaint them again.
