K my only recent experience with matchbox decals was on my Black Hawk 200, though I wasn't using the main markings only the stencils etc, I recoiled in horror at the milky white goo that I assume was glue, and quickly whipped it off and didn't bother with any more.
Since then I seem to recall reading somewhere that Matchbox decals will do this but will dry clear and leave no trace of the yoghurt like fixative.
My one week Matchbox Tornado again I have other decals for the main stuff but i'd really like to use the kit stencils, the sheet looks in good shape no yellowing, seems fairly new. Am I gonna be OK, obviously this is on a deadline and i can't afford any screw ups. Or are Matchbox decals just crap? Oh yeah I will be using Microsol/set.
That white stuff, I tend to just wave the decal about in water for a bit to wash it all off before applying it. I would suggest sticking a few on the underside and see they go on before going the whole shebang.
Here's my trick:
First you realy need a glossy finish on your model for when using Matchbox decals. This is no time for scrimping.
After the decal separates leave it in the water whilst you take a piece of plasticard, drop some sol onto it, transfer the decal (pun intended) to the plasticard and wipe off the "yogurt" with a clean No1 or 2 brush.
Quickly move the decal into place. Bob's-your-Uncle and F*nny-is-a-Rude-Word :D
Ian (I take no responsibility whatsoever for this process going to complete Rat-Sh*t and ruining your next masterpiece if/when you try it for y'self :ph34r: )
On my one Matchbox kit, I used a paintbrush to wipe the gunk from the decals while they were soaking. The decals looked fine after that.
I've never had any problems with Matchbox decals. Like Nev, I just give 'em a little shake in the water and apply them. They seem to go on with no trouble at all.
Had the same problem with the older DACO decals. I did just like Nev, let the dacal soak until it comes of the backingpaper, then grab it with a tweezer and gently wave it through the water for a while. It should be fine then.
Good luck
Patrick