Today I began putting together some of the other kits that will make up the town on my freemo module.
I'm using a combination of DPM and Rix kits for the module, and these two were by Rix, a corner store called 'Johns Place' and a clapboard bungalow.
I assembled the main parts of each kit to help judge the final positions for each building on the module, and also used my NSWL True Sander for the first time, it certainly helped to square the walls on the corner store kit before assembly.
I used extra bracing pieces inside the corners, by gluing short lengths of square profile evergreen styrene.
I plan to add some extra detail on the roof edges of the bungalow and the corner store may also feature and interior.
I will update more on these new buildings as they take shape.
Work begins on my GP60 project locomotives (see HERE for details)
The base model for NS #7129 is an Athearn GP60M in BNSF livery. The first step is to strip the paint from the model, so that detailing can begin. I use 99% alcohol to remove the paint, this is a plastic safe way to strip the paint from models without damaging the shell, but it should always be done in a well ventilated area. I work outside when stripping models.
I seal the model in a tupperware box overnight as a first step. Here's how things looked this morning, as you can see there is no apparent change to the paint, sometimes it will peel off without any help, but as this particular bottle of alcohol has been used a few times, it is a bit diluted.
Despite looking untouched, the paint is actually already softened, and should start to lift off the model with some rubbing. I use thick rubber gloves when handling the parts in the alcohol. The paint tends to remain in the grooves and detail areas of the shell.
An old toothbrush is the ideal tool to use for scrubbing the model, and after a minute or so the shell looks like this, the paint is removed from the majority of the long hood and walkways. The paint around the pilot ends and steps is not ready yet so I've sealed the shell back in the tub for a few more hours to finish the job. I have found it can take a couple of days to loosen all the paint, especially on the modern factory paint. Older 'blue box' paint comes off more easily.
