Removing model paint

[lt.actionjackson]

Hey guys I wasn't sure if I should post this here or in the "other" section so mods please move if necessary. I recently purchased what I thought was a new unassembled model kit of the starship enterprise from someone on these boards. I just started assembling the kit todaywhen I noticed that some of the parts were off the sprues and loose and worst of all, some of the clear parts (nacelle centers, deflector array) had been already painted by the seller. Rather than rant about that, I need to know if it's possible to remove the paint from the clear parts, and a method of removal; or if I should just paint the other clear parts in the closest matching shade of blue. Thanks. BTW, I'm a modeling newbie so bear with me.

[EXO]

http://www.bonediggers.com/1-3/strip/strip.html

[David Hingtgen]

Which kit, which parts? Because if you actually intend to "use" the clear parts (paint from behind, etc) I doubt there's anything that can strip off paint without etching/melting the clear parts. If you plan to use them like an opaque piece and paint them on the outside, then you should be okay. Clear parts do behave differently, many thinners/cleaners/strippers will literally liquify them, even if they leave normal plastic perfectly fine.

[Sweet-1]

Awesome article EXO. I've actually been using Simple Green with great results. It takes a little longer, but I've left stuff in the tank for weeks at a time with no effect on the plastic. I just use an ice cream pail and drop the pieces in, seal the lid and check it daily, scrubbing with a soft toothbrush. It doesn't attack the glue, but removes any fillers as well. It doesn't require gloves either. I've used it on clear parts as well with no problem.

Lonnie

Edited December 20, 2004 by Sweet-1

[EXO]

Davids right though... you're sure to make your clear parts foggy when removing paint from it. Takes a lot of sanding, patience, more sanding and some Future to get it right.... and more sanding...

[Gundamhead]

Simple Green and Easy Lift Off from Polly-S paints work great at removing paint. I've never had either fog clear parts.

[Vince]

i use easyoff for enamel, 409 for acrylic, and of cause a old tooth brush

[lt.actionjackson]

Sorry guys, it's the Bandai Enterprise. BTW, thanks for all the help but the more I think about it, I might just suck it up and paint the other parts to match.

[f91]

Castrol super clean will remove the paint and will not fog the plastic. Period. I've used it on many clear pieces from the 22'Enterprise to and old Aurora sealb. No problems whatsoever.