hi Edward i removed all the decks (very carefully) and sanded them down to the bare wood then used a light coloured paint recommended by the maritime museum when restoring their models, then marked the deckplanks using Indian ink, not an easy job, you say being careful not to damage bits that have to be removed, there are many pieces missing inc the rear docking bridge, stanchion's, ladders, several cowal vents, but getting there slowly, the hull has just been completed and ready to go back on its stand after a full stripdown and repaint, pics will be posted later tomorrow, regards brian