Neede Advice on Stripping Multiple Layers of Paint.

[Mrfixit]

Hey guys. Before I mess something up, I thought I'd ask you for your opinion regarding the removal of multiple layers of paint. I've got a 68 Camaro that, in some places, has two layers of paint (1-Lacquer, 2-Acrylic,and 3-2K primer).

I was going to have the body soda blasted because I have a couple of areas that have filler an I wanted to save it but, times being what they are and "play" funds being slim, I'm thinking if tackling it myself. I tried some Aircraft Stripper in a small area but it didn't budge the 2K primer. How you you recommend that I proceed?

I'm planning to only strip only the roof, A and B pillars, and the rear valence. Almost everything else has been replaced.

[Mrfixit]

I guess my question is too basic or the answer it too broad. I guess I'm looking for advise on what grit sanding disc(s) would be best to use. As I mentioned before, I tried the chemical stripper but the 2K primer is too hard. Should I concentrate of removing the 2K then go with the chemical or do you think it would be best to just sand it clean? I have a real fear of grinding too much and gouging the sheet metal.

You help would be appreciated.

[MarkM66]

I use 40 grit until I see metal, then finish with 80.

[7TSS]

Originally Posted by MarkM66

I use 40 grit until I see metal, then finish with 80.

This is what I did with my car also

[almcbri]

Originally Posted by MarkM66

I use 40 grit until I see metal, then finish with 80.

x2

I actually have done the aircraft stripper route. I like the stuff you paint on with a brush better than the can. Simple sanding is what I prefer though.

[speedshftr]

i laid the stripper on brushed thickly only in one way.not back and fourth.let it bubble up/dont rush the chemicle.after it bubbled up i scraped one layer at a time .redoing each step for each layer of paint.i then got down to the old brown facory primer and used the striper again then used laquar thinner with scotch brite stiff pads for the rest.wear gloves and try to do it outside.just remember if you brush both ways with the stripper it will not work correctly
good luck

the stripper will eaat the bondo too it just takes several coats

[speedshftr]

i laid the stripper on brushed thickly only in one way.not back and fourth.let it bubble up/dont rush the chemicle.after it bubbled up i scraped one layer at a time .redoing each step for each layer of paint.i then got down to the old brown facory primer and used the striper again then used laquar thinner with scotch brite stiff pads for the rest.wear gloves and try to do it outside.just remember if you brush both ways with the stripper it will not work correctly
good luck

[BritishGreen68]

i always use my trusty Makita buffer, with a 7" 3M stick-it pad and 36-40 grit. Just go slow and it wont get hot at all and very controllable. Ive never done any damage with it, unless you hit chrome or glass lol... You can strip the entire exterior of a car in a day no problem, but you will go through a few sheets of paper. Then DA with 80 and etch/epoxy the metal and do body work over that..

[ProdigyCustoms]

You can always brush on the Aircraft stripper and lay bisquene (sp) plastic over the panel. Do it in the shade, pretty good stuff. I am not much into grind stripping, to much chance of the swirl marks X Ray through later. I do not like to scrap with sharp corner objects and put gouges in the metal either. More X ray issues later on. We use a combination of scrapers wit rounded edges we have mad and sharp edge plastic scrapper / squeegees.

[Mrfixit]

Guys,

Thank you for the responses. I know the question may seem trivial but after all the work that I've put into this car, I'd hate to screw it up.

I've not had any luck with the aircraft stripper on the 2K primer. So, based on the above advice, I think that I'll try and score the surface with 40 grit until I get into the lower layers then try the chem strip again.

Thanks again.