I have a postwar 726RR locomotive that I have been returning to postwar operating condition. Its cowcatcher assembly has been painted and I would like to strip that and go back to the factory chemically blackened finish. My intention is to remove the assembly and soak it in some dishwashing detergent, but I wondered if this would harm the chemically blackened surface underneath. Any input or suggestions would be appreciated.
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I have a postwar 726RR locomotive that I have been returning to postwar operating condition. Its cowcatcher assembly has been painted and I would like to strip that and go back to the factory chemically blackened finish. My intention is to remove the assembly and soak it in some dishwashing detergent, but I wondered if this would harm the chemically blackened surface underneath. Any input or suggestions would be appreciated.
na...paint stripper or soak it in acetone....
Thanks I will try that this weekend.
If you have the ability, bead blast it, alternatively use a chemical stripper. Otherwise your going to have possible scratches in the metal from trying to clean out the small crevices. Blackening is easy and safe. Just go to any local Gun Shop and buy a bottle of Gun Blue. Its about $8. When your ready to blacken the part, obtain a plastic bowl big enough to drop the pilot into. Wear gloves, medical gloves will do. Pour the bottle of Blue in the bowl and place the pilot into it. If the chemical does not cover the part use a throw away paint brush to coat the whole part. Wait about a minute then remove the pilot and leave sit for 20 to 30 seconds then wash with clean cold water and scrub gently with an old tooth brush. You can use dish soap to make sure you got all of the chemical off. Pat dry with a clean cloth. You can put the Blue back in the bottle, it is good for several uses. When the pilot is dry you can mount directly to the loco, or if you desire, give it a light coat of WD-40 and wipe clean with a soft cotton cloth for a slightly less flat finish.
Gandy
I have a bead blaster- good point
The Gandy-man is spot on. I use my media blaster whenever possible. Glass beads are a safe choice, however, when in doubt use walnut shell.
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