What is the best way to remove paint from a plastic model?
by 
Santaanacanyon
ANSWERS: 10
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Pine Sol. Put the model into a container that will allow you to pour enough Pine Sol to cover the entire model. Let sit for two hours. The paint should start to peel off; if not, wait an additional two hours. Scrub remaining with an old toothbrush, but do not add water, or you will get scrub marks on the plastic. Never use acetone or brake fluid. These solvents are great at removing paint, and used to be used in the past, but also soften today's modern plastics.
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I find that you can also use nail polish remover.
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Actually, nail polish remove contains acetone which will cause your resin to break down as well as the paint. Even non-acetone nail polish remover will do the same because of the ethyl acetate in it.
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On several modelling sites, it is suggested to put the model in a plastic bag and spray a generous amount of oven cleaner in the bag. let it sit for a day, then wash it under the tap. I have not yet tried this on a model ( did not need to, yet0 but tried it on metal parts painted in ammerite and it worked. To avoid disappointment, it may be wise to first try this on an old model, or for example a painted wing or fuselage of a scrapped kit. Greetings, Eduard.
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Castrol Super Clean, available at auto parts stores and Wal-Mart in 1 gallon size, is an effective solution for removing old model paint from styrene plaastic models. Use this solution in a glass or plastic container (not metal!!) and immerse the model part or assembly entirely into the container. It usually takes about 3 hours for an effective removal process, follwing up by using a toothbrush or other short bristle brush to clean crevices of remaining paint. Use kitchen gloves and wear eye protection while using and properly dispose of the dirty solution after use.
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Depending on the paint, I have used Whestley's White Wall Cleaner (use rubber gloves), Walmart Brand Castrol Super Clean (Purple Power I believe), Brake Fluid, 91% Rubbing Alcohol, and Some Oven Cleaners. DO NOT use any Lacquer thinners. It will take the paint off, but will also attack the plastic, possibly turning into a lump of goo.
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The very best stuff I've ever used is called "CHAMELEON" There is no guessing or worrying if it's going to work or if it will melt your models. Most paints can be removed in under a half hour! It was specifically designed for plastic models and they have both liquid and gel formulas. It may cost a bit more than some of these risky home remedies, but it is well worth the peice of mind knowing you won't lose your model and it will most certainly work. It is re-usable too! You can buy it directly from their website: www.chameleonproductsonline.com
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i have always been taught by my dad to use fine grit sand paper and sand under luke warm water.just sand it until the whole model feels smooth.
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Immerse the model in a container of commercial paint stripper, & leave it immersed while you go navigate down to the local hobby store to purchase a NEW model. Removing paint & then repainting said model is about as appetizing as eating the same lunch, TWICE at the same sitting!
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1)Brake Fluid works great. Make sure NOT to use fluid labelled as 'Dot Four'. I lost two model tanks to this, it makes to surface ripple, like water with a wind on it. The non 'dot 4' stuff will disolve the paint without damaging the model. Leave it to soak overnight, fully immersed, in a plastic container. I find a lunch box works great. Keep the lid on, as water absorbed into the fluid may degrade performance (partial treatment does zip. Wash off residue with water. paint left in crevaces can easily be removed with a small brush and fluid, like reverse painting. 2)Orange oil removers work Great!!! Apply liberally with a brush, leave for a few mins to half hour, repeat as needed.
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