I thought I'd better start a separate thread on this topic rather than clutter the 'Marks Models Sale' thread. Dear Moderators if you would like to detach or remove the answers already posted to the Marks thread and append here that fine by me. I have added them to the bottom of this post.
Question: What is the recommended and most successful method of renumbering MM model locos?
Transfers
Paint/spray over stencil
Hand painting
Cotton bud and a little surgical spirit rubbing gently, be very careful not to rub to hard as it will start to remove the paint also. I've used this on numerous renumbering projects. If your still unsure try it on an old body first to perfect your techniques. TDR
Up to date with the latest numbers so as new slate grey 117s roll out for real these guys can have the full EVN numbers ready to go, just drop them a mail.
Noel, Studio Scale Models or RailtecTransfers both supply the transfers. Links to their sites are on the bottom of the main IRM page under Manufacture tab.TDR
I didn't see any black livery B141, B142, etc transfers on SSM's site.
Thanks Guys. I'm just not sure which is the most successful or preferred DIY method: "Hand paint, paint with stencil, or transfers?" especially with early black livery 141s (e.g. B141). I didn't see any transfers on SSMs web site for the black baby GMs with the 'B' prefix. The factory numbering looks like paint rather than transfers.
Answers below so far. Thanks Guys.
I think 99% of repaints are done with decals. However, the varnish and other mediums you use before, during and after applying the decal will have a huge affect on the end result.
This is the bit that confuses me.
Decals is the way to go. You need to get a glossy area to apply the decal to. When it's in place for a day you can seal it in with your preferred varnish. Factory finished models are tampo printed. Hand painting or stenciling numbers would be a bit stone age when there are perfectly good decals available. Have a look on youtube and you will see plenty of how to do it on there.
Thanks. Will transfers not have a background 'halo' effect over the black body (i.e. shinny semi gloss look)?
Noel my understanding is the manufactures normally use a system called Tampo printing using paint to apply the required/desired numbering, logo etc, thats why I believe they are easily removed using surgical spirit. Transfers are easier to apply ,and more accurate than stensil or free hand. Give Des Sullivan "Studio Scale Models" a shout he may be able to produce specifically what you require TDR
No to hand painting - impossible. Equally with stencils. If the transfers aren't available off the shelf, simply email railtech and SSM and get a quote. Des has done a ton of custom stuff for me, and I'm sure railtech would do the same. The factory numbering is printed on, not a transfer, as with all factory produced stock.
Thanks guys. Ok it looks like transfers is the only practical option for DIY renumbering. Two Questions (see image below)?
How does one get the transfers to follow non flat surfaces on the loco body shell (e.g. cover a vertical groove which would shorten the width of a letter or number)?
How does one get the transfer to look the same finish as the matt body shell?
Does one have to paint a gloss varnish layer under the transfer, or gloss the whole body, then put transfer on when dry, and then respray area or whole body matt varnish?
Question
Noel
I thought I'd better start a separate thread on this topic rather than clutter the 'Marks Models Sale' thread. Dear Moderators if you would like to detach or remove the answers already posted to the Marks thread and append here that fine by me. I have added them to the bottom of this post.
Question: What is the recommended and most successful method of renumbering MM model locos?
I didn't see any black livery B141, B142, etc transfers on SSM's site.
Answers below so far. Thanks Guys.
This is the bit that confuses me.
Thanks. Will transfers not have a background 'halo' effect over the black body (i.e. shinny semi gloss look)?
Thanks guys. Ok it looks like transfers is the only practical option for DIY renumbering. Two Questions (see image below)?
Does one have to paint a gloss varnish layer under the transfer, or gloss the whole body, then put transfer on when dry, and then respray area or whole body matt varnish?
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