I just purchased a used OS 52 surpass that the PO had given a light coat of spray paint. I would like to remove the paint but I do not want to tarnish the aluminum. Has anybody had any luck removing paint from their engines?

It will usually wash off with a little glow fuel and a tooth brush?

Regular paint stripper is caustic and will tarnish the aluminum die castings of our model engines.

There are non caustic paint strippers made and they are mainly sold for stripping airplanes but price may not be cost effective.

You could try some acetone

Would the "anti-freeze in the crock pot" work as well?

Yes but it may take a few days

Cellulose thinner also works and if you wash it well after application, there won't be any problem.

Acetone or Laquer Thinner will remove most paints, poly or epoxy paints are very stubborn to remove. But be sure there is not any orings, plastic or such get into contact with it. Another idea is stripper thats used on custom Alum. wheels any auto parts store should carry it in small enough amounts to make it afforable.

Use brake fluid to remove the paint without hurt the aluminium parts.