What's the best way to remove paint from a locomotive? I believe I read somewhere to use 70% alcohol? Is that correct, and if so will it remove all of it without any residue left? Where would I get 70% alcohol, and is there any other way to remove paint using a different solution? Thanks Thomas
70% isopropyl alcohol is the prefered method. Some manufacturers paints/decals are more stubborn then others. There are other ways to do it...but most require wearing a hazmat suit!!!! LOL. isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) can be found on the shelves of your local pharmacy.
I have found 90 or 91% alcohol work better and still will not harm the plastic. Sometime it does require a little scrubbing with a stiff tooth brush but whatever is left does not show when repainted. Some of the commercial strippers leach some of the plasticizers out of the shells causing them to become brittle. So if the alcohol treatment does not work, as is the case every now and then, and you have to use something stronger, go quickly, don't soak the shell and wash them off repeatedly to reveal your progress so that you are unlikely to expose the plastic too much to the harsh chemicals.
Thanks for the replies. Any idea where I might get 90% alcohol? Would that be something I would find in the paint section at say Home Depot or something? I'm assuming with the alcohol solution I would let the parts soak in it until I see paint starting to come off? Sorry for so many questions but I never did any paint removing on any locos, only paint applying.
90% can usually be found right next to the 70% at the pharmacy. I know its that way at our local KMart
Do not use RUBBING alcohol. It contains oils to lubricate the skin. The oil will remain on the surface causing problems with the paint.
91% Isopropyl Alcohol. Target, CVS, Walgreens all carry it. It is about $1 a bottle, works great and doesn't affect the plastic. I have left models in it for 2 days to get off some really stubborn paint with no issues. With a good hour long soaking, a little rubbing with an old toothbrush and another hour soaking, most engines will be nice and paint free.
I found 90% at Walgreens, let the shell soak a bit and then start scrubbing with a toothbrush. I had a stubborn paint job on one that took several dunks and scrubs but finally came off. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk - now Free
One overlooked thing you should be aware of when using isopropylene. It is pure alcohol and is easily absorbed through the skin and inhaled and you can reach the level of intoxication that will get you arrested. Latex gloves are of little help.
