Having spoken to a top modeler, I was told that using caustic soda is excellent for removing paint. The important thing, is to let the soda ‘‘cool’‘down’’ before putting the bits in or applying it to the plastic.
Has anyone tried it ?
Caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) is the functional ingredient in Easy Off oven cleaner. Using oven cleaner does not require heat. Simply place the part into a plastic bin (like a Tupperware container), spray the piece thoroughly with oven cleaner, and put the lid on. Remove after a few hours and wash thoroughly to remove any residue. Stuff works great, but is quite hazardous. This should be done outdoors. In addition, rubber gloves and eye protection are must-haves.
There are other, less-hazardous alternatives available. Castrol makes a cleaner that will remove paint very effectively. I’ve even used Pine-Sol to effectively remove chrome plating from styrene. These materials should be considered prior to using the Easy-Off method.
Gip Winecoff
Rubber gloves are mandatory with Castrol also since it will also remove skin if exposed for too long. I’ve sprayed it through the airbrush also as a cleaner and you do NOT want to inhale much of that stuff in an atomized state. Can you say instant asthma? [xx(]
Mike