Stripping paint from Aluminum
 

I have this aluminum tube that has paint on it that I want to refurb. It's quite old paint. No idea what type but it's shiny ie has a kind of gloss finish and is crazed and cracking. Any idea how to go about stripping it off relatively easily and cheaply?

- Peter.

I have used "Aircraft Stripper" on numerous aluminum wheels with good results. You can buy it in aerosol cans at WalMart. I have also been told that for more stubborn finishes you can try the spray-on automotive gasket remover... never had to try that, myself. WalMart also has etching primer that works reasonably well on aluminum and won't break the bank. I'm sure others will offer additional/better advice, though!

Aluminum is sensitive to both alkaline and acidic products. Stick with something solvent based.


*Have you ever noticed the small, silvery particles in Drano crystals. That is aluminum. It is there to enhance the reaction of the alkaline Drano to water. An aluminum piece immersed in an alkaline hot vat solution will acutally dissolve away.

*Either a strong alkaline or a strong acid product will severly etch and dull the finish of bright aluminum.

Thanks for the info folks. I'll check out some of these products.

- Peter.

I usually start with acetone. I have read that oven cleaner strips paint but never tried it.

Rock Miracle Paint Stripper
 

Methelyne Chloride based with a parafin wax that rises to the surface and acts as a sealant to stop the MethChloride from evaporating and allows the stuff to eat into the paint.

Wipe it off, strain thru window screen to filter out the paint chips, put the remainder back in the can and wash the clean metal with water to neutralize and you are done.

My neighbor owned the firm for 35 years and it is still the best out there.
Wear eye protection and use in an open airy place.

That's nothing to do with the "other" type of Meth is it?

- Peter.