The NEW guy has been looking for tips on removing old paint and "Un-building" old models but cant seem to find any thing that helps. Any chance on how to do this? I would really appreciate it. Im looking to get back into this and I want to undo what was started years ago.

Thanks

Ken

Just my opinion........

Out with the old and in with the new.......unless its some valuable kit or it has some sentimental value in your eyes,why not just "get back into it" by starting with some fresh new kits,read the forums,pick up some hints and enjoy some of the new finely tooled kits out today.

Put your effort into that instead of trying to resurrect an old kit.

That being said, if thats what you want to do, go for it and enjoy yourself,and good luck on future projects !!!

For stripping old paint I use plain brake fluid just dip the kit into that for a night or two, also helps to soften or break bonds from some types of styrene glue. I've also heard thatoven cleaner works pretty well for stripping old paint, much quicker than the brake fluid.

HTH
Greg

Thanks, it's soaking now. That was the only idea I have been told.

I usually place the painted kit into a ziplock bag (usually a larger freezer bag) and spray it with Easy Off oven cleaner. The lye in the oven cleaner is caustic, so wear rubber dishwashing gloves. I let it stand overnight.

The next morning I use an old toothbrush and a few toothpicks to scrub off the remaining old paint and pick out the paint from the cracks and crevices. Sometimes it takes more than one application to get the paint off.

To remove old glue, if it is old tube glue, freeze the kit overnight and try to crack it along the seams the next morning. The tube glue gets very brittle when frozen.

I've used both methods, -oven cleaner and brake fluid, with good results. When you're scrubbing with the toothbrush add a little washing up liquid for the final scrub.

Easyoff oven cleaner will strip paint and chrome from model parts. Spray it on and let it soak then wip it off or scrub with a brush until the paint is removed.

The Raider