How do you remove paint off factory painted models? Evidently, I want to be able to repaint the models after so they must remain unharmed as far as plastic goes. much help appreciated
Mathieu, Sometime last year, there was an entire thread relating to removing paint from plastic. However, I can not for the life of me remember where it was located. You may have to research somewhat, or perhaps someone else will recall where that thread was located for you.
chameleon stripper, works on atlas and kato shells with no problems. it is available through walthers.
I have been using Scalecoat Paint Remover for years! I bought a 1-pint bottle back in the 80’s and it’s still good. The label warns to “use at your own discretion on Atlas N and HO engines”. I’ve used this stuff to remove paint from all kinds of plastic with no problems. Its great to use on old paint soaked brushes, even when the paint has dried. Just let it soak, and you will be amazed at how the old paint softens. I’ve saved a couple brushes using this remover. Also use it to clean my airbrush. Makes you wonder what kind of chemicals are in it? Nothing is listed on the label.
I use 91%(walgreens) alcohol. It's cheap and works great..At least I think so. I read an article in (MR) last year.Dont beat me up ya'll.By Lionel Strang,I think. Have a good week ya'll.
I use "ELO" Easy Lift Off, by PollyS or Polly Scale.... Works wonders, an letting a bachamnn soak in it does remove the paint, an doesn't hurt the plastic..... Which they say Bachmann's paint is hard to remove. I have no trouble, I put the bachmann in it, let it soak for awhile 30 minutes or so, then roll it over for the other side this stuff needs air to work properly after its on the body.... I've not ran into any compnay an paint this stuff hasn't removed the factory paint from... unless the plastic is molded in color...... Then you just paint over that so.... Works great for me, been using it for years!
Years ago I used to use brake fluid, never soaked anything, just vigorous brushing and immediate rinsing.Not for the faint of heart.. Mike
I've used 91% isopropyl on Atlas and Lifelike shells in N scale, and Athearn and Bachmann shells in HO. It's cheap and very effective. PollyS's ELO is also good- I stripped a Rail Power Products CF7 shell using this product, readying it for a repaint. After using both of these products, I'm getting away from brake fluid- too messy to use unless you're outside (a wee bit impractical this time of year in the Northern Hemisphere) or in a separate workroom (again, impractical unless it's heated). Besides, 91% isopropyl is much cheaper than brake fluid. I've used brake fluid for years on Athearn and Atlas shells, and have had great results, but it's alkyhol fer me from now on!
Brent, (and others) I would be cautious about making blanket statements such as this about paint removal techniques, especially given your position as authority/subject matter expert on this board. I have seen testimony on this and other forums where PineSol or equivalent has damaged shells irrepairably. Whether or not this is the case I have no way of knowing, but I would think there is a chance given the wide variety of paints and plastics used that there could be a problem. One of the projects on my ever-growing "to-do" list is the create a Paint and Decal Removal Database that will outline what products/techniques people have used and the results. Maybe this would reduce the chances of someone destroying an "increasingly costly" body shell. Anyway, my point is not to argue that PineSol doesn't work, because I know it does. Just wanted folks to be careful ... test a small area first, just in case. Like one guy says...your mileage may vary!!! [ 11. February 2003, 21:38: Message edited by: Doug A. ]
