Gentlemen,
I have a tip for you when using chemical strippers like Aircraft Stipper by Kleen Strip. If you scratch the surface of the paint with 36-40 sandpaper the stipper will be able to get under the paint quicker and loosen it faster than waiting for it to dissolve through from the top. You don't have to sand much, just scratch it up a little. Another trick I use is to cut up the paint surface with a single edge razor blade. I buy the blades in bulk and have plenty of them on hand at all times. Just use the corner of the blade and cut giant X's all over the surface to be stripped. The cut lines are anywhere from 1 to 3 inches apart depending on how thick the paint is. The thicker the paint, the closer the cuts. This works better than sandpaper on thick coats of paint as it will cut clear to the base metal and let the stripper get to the bottom very quickly. Don't toss the blade when you have finished cutting up the surface as you can use it to scrape off the loosened paint after the stripper does it's job. The sharp edge really cuts through the paint, even paint that is still stuck to the metal making removal much easier. Some folks like to use a blade holder for the razor blades but I can't seem to get the "feel" I require when using the blade alone. I have more control over the angle and the cutting pressure without the handle. You decide which is best for you. Of course it goes with saying that if you work this close to the sripper you must use gloves and have some water handy as well as a little vinegar or Coca Cola handy to neutralize any that comes in contact with your skin. Hope this helps in some small way.
| 
