Dulling the Linkage.

[Shay2]

I need some advise on how to go about weathering (dulling) the bright metal surface on the wheels and drive rods on my new 2-6-0, IHC Mother Hubbard.
It's a sweet running engine and has nice detail, but your eye is drawn to those chrome parts.
Will dry brushing some flat paint work as long as I keep the flange area clean?
Anybody have a suggestion?
Rich

 

[Drew1125]

I usually brush paint the drivers (wheels0, rods, & cylanders on my steamers Floquil Grimy Black, being careful to keep paint off the tires/flanges, motor & gears. Then dry-brush acrylic white or sand color.

 

[Shay2]

Thanks Charlie, I didn't mean to ignore your response, I have tried your suggestion and am most pleased with the results.
Rich

 

[Drew1125]

Hey Rich,
Just got my April issue of Model Railroader, & in the Ask Paint Shop column, they mention a product called Neolube. It's made by PBL. They claim that it will blacken the shiney metal parts, & won't interfere with electrical contact the way paint does.
If you're interested, it says you can order it online at www.p-b-l.com.