Stripping a Frame?????

[Waco 100]

I need to strip the paint off of an aluminum frame and I know media or sand blasting is probably the best way to go, but I really don't feel like paying to have it done. I was thinking a wire grinding wheel may work, but the problem is what kind to use for aluminum. Would steel be too hard and damage the metal or could I just go with a relatively fine coarsness and be okay. Any advice or experience you can relate would be appreciated.

[Peterpan1]

My local powdercoater will strip and PC the frame for about 55 bucks, so i don't think the blasting needs to be terribly expensive.

They sell home model blasters about 15 bucks but you need the compresor.

There are scotchbrite wheels that you can strip with, they go on a drill, however they are pretty agressive.

Wire wheels I don't know about, most I have used just weren't terribly effective. At some rpm everything seems to click.

[duane041]

I think aluminum may be too soft for a wheel. I would try (If you can find one) a brass wheel, as brass is pretty soft, too.
I have had great luck using a chemical stripper on aluminum bikes in the past. Paint and primer comes off in big sheets, very easy to do (with proper ventilation, of course)

[silverodt]

My local powdercoater will strip and PC the frame for about 55 bucks, so i don't think the blasting needs to be terribly expensive.

They sell home model blasters about 15 bucks but you need the compresor.

There are scotchbrite wheels that you can strip with, they go on a drill, however they are pretty agressive.

Wire wheels I don't know about, most I have used just weren't terribly effective. At some rpm everything seems to click.


Peterpan;

That's a really good price for blasting and PC! Where are you located and what is the name of your Powder Coater?

[Nessism]

Use a chemical stripper to get most of the paint off. After that, use scotchbright pads by hand to rough up the metal some - and use an etching primer.

[Waco 100]

You'll have to forgive my noobness, but what is a good brand/ kind of stripper to use?

[duane041]

This is one of the oddest names for a product ever

Kleen Strip Aircraft Remover. http://www.crashsupply.com/cgi-bin/csupply/klegar343gr.html

Yeah, "AIRCRAFT REMOVER". Whatever that means.

Stinks to high heavens. Works fast and well. Follow directions closely. You should be very satsfied with the results.

[Dr.Deltron]

Jasco Water Rinsable paint & epoxy remover. Available at your local hardware store.
Brush it on going in ONE DIRECTION ONLY as the can says.
Wrap the frame in a 45 gallon garbage bag overnight.
Once you have the paint off, wash the frame with soap & water to remove the Jasco residue.
Clean with wax & grease remover, primer, paint, clear.
Build, ride, enjoy!!!
Cheers, Dr.D