Best solution for oxidized paint

[BSNorris]

We recently purchased a 1945 J-3 that was last covered and painted in the '90s. The N number on the tail was made out of vinyl using a very non-standard font and the placement is not in the correct location. It runs across the vertical stab and the rudder. I am wanting to reapply the number using the correct block lettering and placement (thank you Clyde Smith for the guidance). As I suspected, when I peeled off one of the letters, it was easy to see just how oxidized the paint on the airplane had become. The yellow under the letter was MUCH brighter. I did a test with some rubbing compound and in just a few minutes the the dividing line between the oxidized paint and the paint that had been under the letter was a lot less noticeable. I am writing to see if anyone has any advice on how to best proceed to do the entire airplane. I am especially interested in what the best product would be to remove the oxidation. I do have an orbital polisher and also a Cycle polisher, but know how easily the finish can be damaged by using an electric polisher on high spots.

Any and all advice is greatly appreciated.

-= Brian Norris =-

1945 J-3 N41412