I have stripped 3 diecast boilers using "Castrol Super Clean", and it should work quite well on the aluminum also. It only took about 2-3 hours of soaking to loosen all the paint, without any adverse affects, and it is safe to use without noxious vapors, etc.. Put the "Super clean" into something like a breadpan, that is big enough to hold the part. Use it full strength, and after soaking for few hours, use an old toothbrush to scrub off the paint. If there are stubborn parts, soak for little longer. Once you are satisfied with the stripping, do a rinse of soapy water, followed by a final rinse of "ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL", not any other type of alcohol. The other alcohols have minute amounts of petroleum, which affects a smooth repainting, if repainting an item. The best price for Super Clean is from Wal-Mart, but can be had at any auto parts store, or some hardware stores.
Fifedog: You always come through. Thanks.
I used to custom paint model trains. I used Polly S Easy Lift Off (never seemed easy), but it would work on HO and N shells with good results. Trouble is, you need to soak the shell for awhile, so you need a big enough pan (start with a disposable breadpan). Ventilation is a must. Patience too. Once you've stripped the paint, make sure you use mineral spirits to remove the stripper residue. An even coat of primer will help seal the shell, and show possible imperfections.
I'm reading about products called Simple Green and Super Clean (Wal-mart) on other modelling forums.
Since you started with brake fluid (long accepted and not as vaporous), I 'd finish this project with it.
I used to see this green liquid stuff, sold in gallon jugs, at train shows. Worked very well, but was a definite health hazard.
Nowadays, I just try to find a plain shell, with minimal decal or heat stamp, to start with.
Hope this helped a little.
Roger: Thanks.
Another possiblity as it is aluminum, is to try a little laquer thinner in a hidden spot. If it does not discolor the aluminum that may be an option. Your hobby shop may have some strippers like "easy off'".
Roger
HELP...Please....... Awhile back, I posted that I wanted to remove the paint from an aluminum passenger car. I received a few replies, among which, was to use Brake Fluid and another was to let the car "bake" overnight in an oven cleaner product and another suggested an Aircraft Stripper product.
Well, I checked out the "oven cleaner" suggestion and, in reading the directions on several different brands, found that they all said not to use on aluminum. So, I moved on.......
Next came the Aircraft Stripper. Sounded easy enough but the smallest can I could find was enough to take all the paint off a Boing 707! So, I moved on.......
Now, the Brake Fluid: A manageable price and size. So, I started. Well, it is working but the process is becoming tedious.
In my older age, I have discovered that, unlike my physical stature, my patience is wearing thin.
Please just tell me: Am I on the "right track" and that I should continue or should I pull off on a siding and try another approach. (I really don't want to give up the project)
As always, many thanks.
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