Removing lettering from Tenders

[jscw1]

I have another question someone may be able to answer. My HO layout is a Pacific Northwest theme and I model NP, GN, BNSF, ST Marys, etc. I try to find engines that are painted but unlettered in steam. If the tender has painted factory lettering, what is the best way to remove that so I can add my own decals?

 

[GN.2-6-8-0]

What has worked for me in the past is Microscale's Solvaset.
Using a Q-tip soak the Herald/lettering and let stand for 1-2 mins then gently begin to scrub the effected area repeating as necessary.....Remember to go easy so as to not remove and underlying paint.
Other's will have their own ways to accomplish this simple operation.

 

[lmackattack]

with steam engines it is easy to just paint over them. I do this with my air brush then seal it after the new Decals are on/

 

[Cjcrescent]

...
Other's will have their own ways to accomplish this simple operation.

All in all I found that it depends on the brand of tender.

I've had success from a plain pencil eraser all the way to having to "sand blast" the numbers with baking soda, to having to strip and repaint the entire model cause the pad painted number/name fused with the tender's paint and a faint raised edge outline of the number/name was left on the side.

 

[Espeefan]

Solvaset and a pink pearl eraser have worked, and I have also used Champ Decal Set as well. The Champ solution is the strongest available. I've also had to do blast the letters off. Start with the gentle methods and work your way up.