How to Remove Paint From an Automobile
There are several reasons for removing paint from an automobile. Some cars have old paint that must be completely removed before a fresh paint job can be started. Old paint is often difficult to remove from a car surface without extensive labor. A body shop can do this, but it will cost several hundred dollars. You can learn how to remove paint from an automobile and take care of it yourself.
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Things You'll Need
- Sand blaster Sand paper Dual action sander Chemical stripper Tarp Self-etching primer
Instructions
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Use a sand blaster to remove all paint down to the bare metal of the car. Remove all mechanical parts or cover and tape them completely closed. Sand gets into the smallest areas and is difficult to remove and clean. Use the sand blaster in slow, steady movements, allowing the sand to remove all of the paint in an area before going to the next place.
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Place 80-grit sand paper on a dual action sander to take off paint down to the bare metal. The dual action sander removes all paint, but does so slowly and safely. The sander will not harm the metal or the surface of the car.
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Apply a chemical stripper to the car's surface with a paint brush according to the directions. Make sure to have a tarp or something similar under the car to catch all of the paint and chemicals coming off of the car. Apply the stripper in several coats, wait the suggested amount of time and then scrape the paint off with a plastic paint scraper. Rinse the car with cold water afterward to neutralize the chemicals.
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Wash the car and dry it completely. Spray two coats of self-etching primer on the bare metal to prevent rust from forming on the car. Rust can appear within a day or two of exposing the bare metal to the elements.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear protective clothing, goggles, face masks and gloves when handling toxic or potentially dangerous materials.
Never use chemicals or sand blasters in a closed area. Always park the car in a well ventilated space.
