Stripping paint off race plastics?

[GSKirk]

I am curious if there is an easier way to strip existing paint from a fairing (Sharkskins) than manually scraping it off?  In some places where I have road rash it flakes off in small chunks, other places it's still good paint and is very difficult to remove.  How is the best way to approach this? Sanding with coarse grit sandpaper, chemically or just scraping it off by hand?

Also I'm looking for an inexpensive paint job for both upper and lower pieces. I'd buy the supplies just looking for someone to spray it. Located in SW Wisconsin. 

Thanks in advance!

K

[RCR_531]

This is the best way, ok I am lazy. Scott will do an awesome job.   
http://www.morsefiberglass.com/mcf_html/mcf_repair_prices.html

I have used a power sander before just go slow to be careful you don't take to much off.

[K3 Chris Onwiler]

Any chemical stripper will adversely effect the fiberglass, as in turning it into an expensive puddle of goo.  Sandpaper, or better yet an orbital sander like bodymen use, is pretty much your only choice.

[h2o_motorsports]

I personaly recomend using a Mouse sander.  They work awsome.  Start with 80 grit and then 120 before you prime.  Feel free to call or email if you have any questions.  But yes stripper will KILL your fiberglass

[K3 Chris Onwiler]

So what's a mouse sander?  Is that like a jitterbug?

[h2o_motorsports]

It is made by Black and Decker.  They have the triangle shaped sanding pads.  I'm sure that you have seen them around at Home Depot.  I like it better than an orbital sander because it is much smaller and easier to control. 

[K3 Chris Onwiler]

Hmmmmm.  On one hand, I need another tool like I need a hole in my head.  On the other hand, I NEED another new tool....

[dylanfan53]

Tools are good...and they don't have any calories.

[K3 Chris Onwiler]

At least I don't lust after Armenian Bagadoughnuts designer shoes, like a certain leather chick I can think of....

[Kelly Ruby]

i've had great success with aircraft remover.  they make a fiberglass version, but it doesn't work as well.  never had any fiberglass damage with the non-fiberglass one.  it usually goes down to the primer and never gets to the fiberglass anyway.  you can get it at auto parts stores or walmart.

note that it will destroy body filler.  also, if you scuff the surface of the paint the chemical remover will work much better.

[tshort]

I stripped the paint off my first set of race bodywork (fibreglass) with - you won't believe this - a garden hose with a sprayer.  It turned out it was a rattlecan job, and the spray took it all right off.  You could try same, or even use a pressure washer.

If that doesn't work, there is a marine product made especially for taking paint off fibreglass - look for it at West Marine.  I used this to remove stock paint off a set of Harley saddle bags (dresser bags), and it worked pretty well.  I'd say that was easier than sanding it off.

[Gixxerblade]

We a something on the ship (Naval Wessel) called baby shit. Not sure of the exact chemical name but there is a reason its used on a ship far out in sea. Its illegal to use in the U.S. Supposedly very harmful. Takes paint off of anything without adversely affecting the area being removed. Right now I am using an orbital sander and lots of time. Only real way to get that stuff off.