Paint removal from weatherstripping

[Dennis Voiro]

Any suggestions on taking paint overspray off of weatherstripping on a 70 Coupe. The weatherstripping is in excellent condition. The car was repainted to fix key damage and a few areas have some overspray (rear window w/s and door w/s at the top end near handle).

Thanks,

Dennis

[Dennis C.]

Re: Paint removal from weatherstripping

Dennis - I would first try lacquer thinner. If the overspray is a lacquer paint, that should remove it with some elbow grease. If not, I'd resort to trying paint stripper, followed with lacquer thinner. If you try this method, don't leave the stripper on any longer than required. Best, Dennis

[Dennis C.]

Dennis, Of course I should add...

if you are doing this with the weatherstrip in place, a superior job of masking the area off from any chemical is crucial. Its also a good idea. Good Luck.

[Stephen W.]

Re: Dennis, Of course I should add...

I'd be careful using stripper on the weatherstrips if they are installed. First try just running your fingernail down the weatherstrip. Apply enough preasure to depress the rubber but not enough to cut it with your nail. This may surprise you how much of the paint will flake off leaving the weatherstrip clean. This works best on Lacquer because the paint will be brittle. Urethanes will be flexible and have a better "bite". A solvent saturated Q-tip will be my approach here with a clean white cloth to dry up the solvent and wipe the weatherstrip clean.

[Dennis Voiro]

Re: Paint removal from weatherstripping

Thanks for the responses. The paint is base coat/clear coat and the weatherstripping is installed. I will try the finger nail method again but it is painfully slow.