[VAC] Re: Paint Removal, ext.

["Robert / Susan Harper" <rharper@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi, Tom-

My guess is that the refinisher would have used an etching acid on the
aluminum to remove oxidation and provide a clean (and slightly roughened)
surface for the paint to grab. If not that, a fine grit sandpaper. This type
of etched surface (or sanding scratch pattern) is fairly easy to shine up on
trim pieces, but on large panels where you'd like a mirror shine, it can be
a bear of a job (if not impossible).

Further difficulty is getting the paint off without adding more scuffs and
scratches in the process. A strong gelled chemical stripper (flammable,
dangerous, toxic) is the only way I know to loosen the paint, but it will
cling tightly to the roughest areas and require several applications of
stripper to get it off. Just hope they didn't use a catalyzed epoxy primer,
because that will really be tough. Sounds like a small test might be in
order.

Be careful in choosing your hand tools to aid in the removal of the paint
sludge. Brushes and wood or plastic scrapers can leave marks which may not
be apparent until you're approaching the shine-up stage. Try using the
finest grade of Scotchbrite (white) wetted with stripper, rinsing the sludge
from the pad as it becomes clogged. Use light pressure and keep an eye on
the surface quality you're exposing: are you scratching the surface? You
might want to go in horizontal strokes only. Be patient and give the
stripper time to work. Remember: no flames (pilot lights?) or sparks, use
neoprene gloves, goggles, and do outside. Avoid breathing the fumes, and
keep the stuff off of your skin.

Maybe it would be easier to just redo the paint in a non-Amtrak style?  Good
luck.

Bob Harper
'62 Globe Trotter in SC