Bob,
I restore ship models and if possible can you supply the following information?
What material was used in the building of the model?
Is it a solid hull or plank on frame?
Does it have sales?
Is the deck plank over layer?
What type of paint do you think it has?
ETC.
When I restore a model "depending on condition of deterioration" I usually remove the rigging and unstep the mast's if possible, sometimes the previous modeler glued them to the model, (no fun at this point). strip them down and restore them as new.
The hull and deck & deckhouses get the seme treatment. The fittings (hopefully are white metal) clean up easliy . Send me some pictures of it and I get you a few pointers. I have hi speed, so don't worry about the size if the pics.
jbgroby@cox.net
Jake