Stripping front of car

[Lhorn]

What the best way to strip the paint off the very front piece on a GN (header panel?). I'm using chemical stripper on the rest of the car but don't want to ruin this piece. Thanks

(Sorry if this has been addressed before - I did a search but found nothing much)

 

[JP87GN]

Originally posted by Lhorn
What the best way to strip the paint off the very front piece on a GN (header panel?). I'm using chemical stripper on the rest of the car but don't want to ruin this piece. Thanks

(Sorry if this has been addressed before - I did a search but found nothing much)

I would use a DA w/ 150 grit paper, stay away from the style lines( hand sand those)

 

[Lhorn]

Probably a stupid question, but is this thing fiberglass? What about those little bolt on points at the end of the car?

 

[JP87GN]

They are made of SMC (sheet moulded compound). Same stuff as newer F-body doors. Don't dig into it, Just strip it enuff to get the paint off, then prime, then block.

 

[Red Regal T]

You can use the stripper on the fibreglass header panel without damaging it. Fibreglass doesn't melt like plastic. Just apply the stripper and wait for it to act, then use a plastic bondo spreader remove the blistered paint. Re-apply stripper for stubborn paint. Use coarse steel wool, paint stripper, lacquer thinner, and clean rags. I wouldn't recommend sanding the paint off because there is a good chance of gouging the panel.

 

[Lhorn]

Is it fiberglass or SMC? If fiberglass, can you use straight aircraft stripper or the fancy pants fiberglass stripper? Thanks for the replies.

 

[Red Regal T]

I don't think you'll have a problem in any case. Do a test spot on a corner to convince yourself.

 

[GN ERGY]

I used the aircraft stripper and a scotch-brite pad on mine and it didn't hurt it.
Tarey D.

 

[Lhorn]

Thanks guys. You saved me some elbow grease.