SD74, I know you've got your kit ordered from Dallas (great guy) but when you're ready I offer some On30 rolling stock kits. http://www.on30ima.com
Do not use lacquer thinner if you have plastic ties. Excessive lacquer thinner will attack the plastic. Acetone should work fine.
Really a very nice collection of signs. Although I model 1920, I think I may find some appropriate to that age here. Most of the popular signs...