How to Paint a Brass Locomotive

Remove the cab, boiler and tender from the locomotive. Removing these parts makes it easier to clean and paint them. On some models these parts are not easily removed; if that is the case, leave them in place. Be careful not to damage any part that is removed. If you feel you cannot remove a part without damaging it, leave it attached to the model.

Scrub the parts with an old toothbrush in warm soapy water. Wipe the parts down with a cotton cloth dampened with mineral spirits to prepare the brass for painting. Use a paper towel to handle the parts after washing. Touching the parts with bare hands may get grease and oils on the model and cause adhesion problems with the paint.

Paint the parts with metal primer using an air brush and allow to dry for 24 hours. Inspect the parts for any bare spots and repaint as required.

Paint the locomotive using the color of your choice. Paint several thin coats of color instead of one heavy coat. Multiple thin coats give better paint coverage and reduce the chance of runs and drips. Most locomotives were black with dark gray fireboxes. Allow the paint to dry for 48 hours.

Apply decals as required according to the decal manufacturer's instructions. Spray a clear flat topcoat over the finished locomotive shell to seal any decals and protect the paint.

Reassemble the locomotive taking care not to scratch the paint. Install the cab, boiler, tender and any other parts removed in Step 1. Apply any touch ups or details as required.