Preping plastic models for repainting

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I have an Athearn SW1500 that i want to strip and repaint. What is the best chemical to use for this without damaging the plastic?

Tom Hoffmann
Boise, ID

2

WELCOME TCH22122
I was hoping to read someone’s answer. This is something I will probably never do, but I would like to know just in case. Sorry I couldn’t help. I’ll check for “real” answers later.LOL

Walter

3

I use Chameleon Stripper. Athearn paint can be tough, so sometimes it will take two or more applications.

Nick

4

Thanks, guys; I have since heard that isopropyl alcohol or oven cleaner has met with pretty good success. As I know alittle bit about chemistry (enough to be very dangerous), I think I’ll try the lesser of the two evils first - - the isopropyl alcohol; that probably will be least likely to react with whatever plastic it is that Athearn used (on its BB locos) back then.

Tom

5

I’ve tried several with mixed results. The only one to work consistently no matter the make of model was Polly S ELO.

Trevor

6

I have benn using plain ol’ brake fluid on Athearn BB for 25 years without any probs.