Using brake fluid to remove paint?

[RobertInOntario]

What a great looking locomotive. I am surprised the factory black paint did not want to come off! I would try and get as much of the green bits off as possible as they will show texture under the new paint. You may want to wash it good, then put back in with fresh alcohol. You can pick at the remaining green paint with a wooden skewer to try and loosen them. when you get as much paint removed as possible, scrub the loco with the old toothbrush and soapy water (dishwashing liquid). I know it is tedious, but believe me you are doing a great job so far.

Thanks! While I am pleased with this loco, it's a fairly basic, mid-60s model with far less detail than a recently-made model would have. Still, I'm nostalgic for these older locos and like their charm. I think it's simply black plastic as opposed to black paint! The light grey/white around the boiler area, caused by the rubbing alcohol, actually looks quite cool -- almost like a neat weathering effect!

Thanks for your feedback re removing the green paint. I'll have another go at it with a wooden skewer then, and soak it once more, etc. Good point that the remaining areas of green paint could create extra texture, and so should be removed.

Cheers,

Rob