Paint removal

[Sinful10]

My brother is refurbishing an old nostalgic set of valve covers to put on his old Chevy. Theyre finned covers and have been painted red in the grooves. Anybody know of a good way to remove the paint without damaging the aluminum? He lives in the boonies, so there are no shops close by that can do any kind of blasting..

[SCAGNETTI]

i would try a brushable paint stripper. i have used it and it works great. i got mine at local auto parts store. its mar-hyde brand Tal-Strip indutrial strength paint and varnish remover. it\'s in a white one gallon jug. it washes away with water or solvent. it needs to be 70 degrees and wear gloves. it can be brushed or sprayed through a paint gun.

[spacecadet]

I would agree about the brushaable paint remover. Just make sure to read the container and follow the clean up directions. If not when you refinish the valve covers the new coating will bubble and peel right off.

Space.

[Scotty_S-15]

Or, if you\'ve got it laying around, try some brake cleaner. (solvent) Just try a little at first to make sure it doesn\'t etch or stain the aluminum. I guess that goes for ANYTHING you try.... http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif

[FastBikesRule]

DOT 3 brake fluid usually works pretty good, but takes time.

If you want something faster (a lot faster), you can also use Aircraft Paint Remover. Make sure you don\'t buy the high strength stuff - It will pit aluminum fast.