Another trick with stripper is to start working on the frame on a large plastic garbage bag. Have another bag handy, and when you are finished with applying the stripper, lay the frame on the first garbage bag and cover it with the other. This way, the stripper (even if applied incorrectly) will stay open much longer, and will have more time to attack the finish underneath. I got off the original finish of an 80's Cannondale this way, and it only took one pass with stripper.

Doc, thanks for the Miniwax recommendation. I've tried others of similar makeup, and I noticed that they either dried too fast, or if I could get heavy wet coats onto the frame, they would leave behind a bluish cast on yellows, reds, golds, etc. BryE and myself have been trying to find a suitable waterbased clearcoat for some time now, and have yet to discover anything worthwhile. Maybe I will try the Minwax after I try another type that I just receieved.

Thanks for the help and suggestions.