Paint remover
12-25-2006 | 09:35 AM
#2
RE: Paint remover
When refinishing fiberglass, the only paint stripper I use is my DA(dual action sander) and 220 grit paper.
I have tried a few "fiberglass safe" strippers. They definitly didn't harm the glass.....
Of course, they barely harmed the paint either!
So, now I knock off the majority of the paint with the DA and 220.
After the 220, I make any necessary repairs.
Then, I hand sand with 320. (block sand large areas) Next, a coat of filler primer.
That gets sanded 90% off. Then fill any imperfections with micro-ballons and epoxy.
Prime again. Wet sand with 400. prime again. Wet sand again to a nice consistent satin finish.
Part is ready for paint.
Good luck!
Doug
I have tried a few "fiberglass safe" strippers. They definitly didn't harm the glass.....
Of course, they barely harmed the paint either!
So, now I knock off the majority of the paint with the DA and 220.
After the 220, I make any necessary repairs.
Then, I hand sand with 320. (block sand large areas) Next, a coat of filler primer.
That gets sanded 90% off. Then fill any imperfections with micro-ballons and epoxy.
Prime again. Wet sand with 400. prime again. Wet sand again to a nice consistent satin finish.
Part is ready for paint.
Good luck!
Doug
12-25-2006 | 10:24 AM
#3
RE: Paint remover
Put it inside a bead blaster with the softest media you can find and work from at least 12" away to start out. Walnut shells may be a bit harsh, but they make some very tiny glass beads that may work if you turn the pressure down a bit.
Don't use sand!! That will blow holes in fiberglass in about 1/2 second!! Guess how I discovered that little jewel of information?[sm=lol.gif] [sm=red_smile.gif]
Don't use sand!! That will blow holes in fiberglass in about 1/2 second!! Guess how I discovered that little jewel of information?[sm=lol.gif] [sm=red_smile.gif]
12-25-2006 | 10:41 AM
#4
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RE: Paint remover
Acetone wil work great. Just make sure it's glass and not abs. ABS will melt away in acetone. However, soak fiberglass in acetone for about 30 minutes or so, remove, and wipe the paint right off. Just like brand new. I've done it many times. Best stuff going.
12-25-2006 | 02:14 PM
#5
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RE: Paint remover
DO NOT USE ACTONE ON FIBERGLASS !!!!!
The acetone WILL soften the resin, and in many cases, cause the fiberglass to delaminate. The delamination is not immediately noticeable, however you will notice it in about 10 days. I found this out the hard way. [&o]
The best way to remove the paint is by sanding. If you MUST use a paint remover, determine what type of paint is on the plane (lacquer or enamel ) and use the approprite thinner. Lacquer thinner and/or mineral spirits, will have minimal impact on the fiberglass and/or gel coat as long as you thoroughly wash the fuselage with soap and water afterwards.
The acetone WILL soften the resin, and in many cases, cause the fiberglass to delaminate. The delamination is not immediately noticeable, however you will notice it in about 10 days. I found this out the hard way. [&o]
The best way to remove the paint is by sanding. If you MUST use a paint remover, determine what type of paint is on the plane (lacquer or enamel ) and use the approprite thinner. Lacquer thinner and/or mineral spirits, will have minimal impact on the fiberglass and/or gel coat as long as you thoroughly wash the fuselage with soap and water afterwards.
