Clearcoat removal question

[storm 64]

I've always just sanded the clear coat off. I never used any chemicals. I just use a Scotch Bright Pad. And for the corners and reseses I use a Scotch Bright "Ball or Flob" with the Dremal. The clear coat is not that thick were you'd need a stripper or any type of chemical... Also, I'm sure you're not set up for proper disposal of the chemical waste. Chemicals are bad for the environment... My .02

[Who Dat?]

Funny side note, it is often listed as simply "Aircraft Remover". Don't get caught at the airport with it!

Even funnier: read the label, it says "Not to be used on aircraft."

[willie]

I considered removing it with a Scotch Bright pad but didn't want to damage the underlying finish. I agree with your comment though re: having to deal with the environmentally hazardous waste. In addition, I have enough chemicals on the shelves of my shop that I'd prefer to be without. None the less, I would like to remove the coating without damaging the finish underneath.

[sacruickshank]

I soak the part in hot water for a few hours if it'll come off and fit in a bucket. If not, I use paint stripper dabbed on with a small paintbrush nice and thick. There is a time factor using stripper, if you wait too long they harden back up a bit. The water method really works well, often it just needs a putty knife and scotchbrite to get what doesn't come off in chunks. That's on gaskets that were put on dry anyway, or at least without a gnarly sealant. My '66 Norton's gaskets peeled right off.

Thanks. Soaking in hot water may be the one thing I haven't tried yet. Picking up the next project today ('83 GS650L) and it will like have a petrified valve cover gasket.