Y&MV 201 Project - Handrails

Athearn Genesis Handrails

I have detailed and painted many locomotives over the years.  The Y&MV 200 and Y&MV 201 will be the first painted Athearn Genesis models I will take apart, paint, and reassemble.  Though spectacular models, I am certain that the very thin plastic handrails will not endure the process well.  I have seen Athearn Genesis handrails warp when only partially removed.  

Recently I reached out to Athearn to see if new, black, GP7 handrails can be purchased.  Given the ease with which paint flakes off plastic handrails it would be best to use black handrails instead of the yellow ones that come with the unit.

Do any of you have experience painting an already decorated Athearn Genesis unit?  

CMP