I have a sd70mac in BNSF in executive colors (actually gifts from my daughter wife). They feel an engine is an engine. The problem is that they have the same number (9647). Any ideas on changing it? I'm not worried about the numberboards just the side number (really not worried about the back numbers either). Jeff
hoo boy... i've been thinking about this... i'm getting a couple of those LL gp-20 UP 474's... and was wondering how to change the numbers... i can't think of anything, except somehow removing the number...and probably taking off some paint... so would have to repaint it, and then add decals. i hope someone knows a better and easier way to do this.
Put rubbing alchohol on a qtip and rub over the numbers.this will erase the factory numbers on atlas and kato.I have never tried it on lifelike.you don't need to put a lot of elbow grease into it either.The higher % of rubbing alchohol you use the quicker and easier the number will come off.you will see a little paint come off also but it wont be enough to matter.just don't rub through the factory paint.If you see it start to go through STOP.You have went way to far then.The numbers are on top and will come off first.Once they are off you just put the new numbers on and you are ready to go.Any other questions feel free to ask them.
I tried the rubbing alcohol tip this week on an atlas sd50 shell and was pleased at how easy it was, the shell is now renumbered and you would never know! Give it a try jeff. whoppit
As an alternative method, you can actually scrape the numbers off with the flat edge of a hobby knife without disturbing the yellow paint beneath. Tedious. Also, it is easiest on the cab. End numbers have to go, too. Use a visor and go slowly. Very, very slowly. Whatever method you use, weathering can help give that prototypical look.
I place little solvaset on the numbers. After a minute or two I carefully remove the numbers with a pencil eraser. Rub lightly. You may need to repeat a second time to get all of the numbers off. No paint comes off with this method.
Jeff you can get them directly from Microscale: http://www.microscale.com/ Or if you just need a couple numbers, I will be glad to mail some to you, I have an excess lot of them.
If you have multiples of BNSF 9647, the "Vomit Bonnet" SD70MAC, be aware that it's a one-of-a-kind paint scheme. There is no other SD70MAC wearing that paintjob, which would make renumbering one of them a moot point. http://www.trainpix.com/bnsf/EMDORIG/SD70MAC/9647.HTM
The easiest way I know to get rid of numbers on the numberboards is simply to paint them black (or white as the case may be) then add your new numbers. I guarantee no one will see the old numbers once they're painted out and decaled. [ 31. January 2005, 22:30: Message edited by: Kisatchie ]
OK, here's my sneaky way: An "8" becomes a "3" with a judicious scraping with the point of a sharp hobby knife. A "4" can become a "1." A "9" can become a "7."
