i bought an old switcher for 20 bucks on ebay that needed to be rewired, all done and running great. now the body was repainted and looks horrible. i was wondering if there are any tricks to take the old paint off and start over.
Assung the shll is plastic and not metal, be aware that different cos. used different plastics and there are some things which are better than others on certain plastics.
Generally, a strong alkali cleaner called "SuperClean Tough Degreaser" will take off most paint without screwing up most plastics. Note the qualifiers. I get mine in a gallon jug at a local auto supply chain called Knechts. (Portland, OR area.).
Soak the shell in a non reactive (glass or plastic) "meat loaf" shaped pan / container for 6 hours, scrub with disposable tooth brush. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Repeat as necessary.
Use nitrile gloves and eye protection when pouring and when scrubbing.
Some folks swear by brake fluid. Brake fluid can be a little more agressive with some plastics. You only find out by trying. Thats why I like the Super Clean.
I endorse the former (brake fluid), but not the latter (alcohol), simply because I've never used it and I know brake fluid works. Alcohol *might* work, and it's unlikely to harm plastic.
You can also use a very strong soap solution (laundry detergent, concentrated cleaner like Simple Green, etc.), which won't harm plastic either, but might take longer to soften up the paint.
Just out of curiosity, what exactly is your little switcher? Might help to know who made it and about how old it is.
You know, you really don't have to include those "disclaimers"; I think most of us can work out that you're simply being helpful by posting a link to a commercial entity, and not spamming the newsgroup.
PolyTech Forum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here.
All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.