How can I remove paint and Laquer?

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Painting and airbrushing
1

I had a major problem after finishing my Mustang GT500 model, basically I was “advised” to use an actual car laquer to finish it off, unfortuneatly I over did it and it melted the decals, now I am wondering if there is any way I can remove it and the paint without damaging the plastic?

I seem to recall something that would remove paint and not melt the frame, but cant recall it’s name or if it would remove laquer as well ?

Any and all advice welcomed :slight_smile:

2

I know Windex will remove acrylic paints without too much issue - but it might not be strong enough on the lacquer.

Another product which i’ve used here in Australia that seems to remove everything without melting plastic is a product call “Goo Remover”. It’s found in the cleaning aisle of supermarkets and is touted as being able to remove things such as chewing gum from carpet and stains off walls.

It has a very strong orange/citrus smell.

I’ve found it will cut through paints etc with no trouble - but again, can’t guarantee it’ll work on automotive lacquer.

Hope this helps.

Chris.

3

Two things that are normally used to strip paint are:

  1. Brake fluid. There are paints that are resistant to it, but it has the big advantage it’s harmless for clear parts.

  2. NaOH - found in stuff used to unclog the drains. Very agressive, more so against paints containing aluminium (metalics). May fog clear parts.

Some people also recommend oven cleaners - this I didn’t try myself. Anyhow, there’s a lot of stuff available. But a messed up paint job is always a pain… Good luck fixing it, have a nice day

Paweł

4

Here a similar product is called “Goo Gone” by Magic American Corporation. I have used it to in cases where there was something ‘chemically inappropriate’ (spelled ‘it’s melting!!!’) going on.

But I’d also like to mention “Goof Off” by Lilly Industries, Inc. It’s available at paint & hardware stores. It will ABSOLUTELY remove dried latex paint.

For lacquer I’d try “Easy Off” oven cleaner. In extreme conditions, there’s Naval Jelly.

5

Thanks for the help, I managed to get the lacquer off by using oven cleaner for 24 hours, that turned it brittle so it cracked off, then another 24 hours in oven cleaner for the paint to come off.

6

Excellent, glad to hear you’ve had success.