Project in the works...looking for input from the experts...

Though I've never done this or wanted to do a color change on a model, I applaud all who have the talent and patience.  But to answer your question John, it would be my opinion that you'd want to remove the graphics and then re-paint.  I'm interested in what others have to say, especially guys like Hollis and Pete Rovero who are couple that come to mind.  And do you care to share what car you're asking this about?  Good luck!

@georgeschire, I'm guessing the proper way to repaint would be to remove the graphics. The vehicle is the DM Chevy wrecker, a distressed example that I picked up on eBay. I'm converting it into a moving van, to replicate a truck that my Dad used in his moving and storage business.

Posted by: @sizedoesmatter

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@georgeschire, I'm guessing the proper way to repaint would be to remove the graphics. The vehicle is the DM Chevy wrecker, a distressed example that I picked up on eBay. I'm converting it into a moving van, to replicate a truck that my Dad used in his moving and storage business.

Sounds like a good find and a fun project to rekindle a great memory of your Dad.  Hope it goes well.  

Thanks George.  John, it's best to remove the tampo graphics before painting, otherwise you most likely will see the outline of the graphics underneath the paint.  You can sand them off the body by using 1200 grit sandpaper or you can use nail polish remover with a Q-tip, cotton ball, or microfiber cloth depending on the size of the graphics you're removing.

I removed the NY Yankees graphics from this sports series 1961 Thunderbird using off-the-shelf nail polish remover from Rite-Aid.  Doesn't work well on painted plastic.  See the seat backs in the last pic.  I'll repaint these when I eventually repaint the model.

Ford never offered this bright white color in the sixties, and it bothers me not having a correct 1961 factory color on this model.

I have enough trouble attaching decals correctly on my kit models let alone trying to take them off! As we all well know Pete's works are stunning so you've got great advice. Really looking forward to your project John. I've been wanting to create a van from one of AMTs 1/25 Model T kits so I'd love to see progress pics if possible. After your successful Mack newsprint truck I'm sure this too will be a success.

@pete-rovero Pete, thanks...I'll pickup some nail polish remover and give it a go.

@geoff-jowett Thanks Geoff.  I'll try to take pics as it progresses...if it doesn't crash and burn.

(@sizedoesmatter) John I purchased this Thunderbird in gold off Ebay, it obviously started life as a pace car and they did a wonderful job in removing the graphics, I changed the tyres and rims over myself, would love to see your work

@pete-rovero Pete ,how will you replace the decals once you repaint ?

Posted by: @sizedoesmatter

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Project will include a color change on a DM issue that has graphics. Do I paint over the graphics or do I remove the graphics first? What's the best way to remove the graphics?

Thanks gents! 

I find that Cutex nail polish remover with 98% acetone has worked well for me.

Have also done the T-Birds.

@mopar-mr Thank you Hollis.

The absolute master of repainting these models is Pete. I have a repaint of the DM 1962 Sports Roadster he did a few years ago in the same color as my 1963 1/1 in Champaign. He also changed the interior from red to black and replicated all of the trim pieces including the roadster insignias and Thunderbird logos. While the DM model was nice, the paint quality is 100% better that the original. The model is a standout model in my collection.

@diecast1-24cars Greg, Great job on the T-Bird. When my project is completed I'll post pics.