Paint removal

[Bob I.]

Would like ideas on how to remove paint from engine compartment wiring.

[Rob A.]

Re: Paint removal

Bob...

Went through this with a car I previously owned. Someome had painted the engine compartment without protecting the wiring. I found the best way was with laquer thinner and a small brush or "Q" tip. I also used paint remover and a small brush/"Q" tip. On the plastic connections use the laquer thinner, as some paint removers will soften/distort them. The laquer thinner is less messy, as it evaporates quickly. You can do a little at a time without much cleanup, only throwing away the rag/paper towel you used. I also put laquer thinner in a small spray bottle to use in where I could easily protect the surrounding areas.

[Bob I.]

Thanks Rob *NM*

[Gregory M.]

Re: Thanks Rob

I agree with the laquer thinner and Q tip method with one caveat: just use as little as needed as it does not have a positive effect on already brittle 40 + year old plastic wire casings. I, personally, would not spray it on or other wise soak it...it drys to the air quickly if wiped on and the less time it spends sitting on the plastic wire casings the better...

GM

[Eric F.]

Re: Paint removal

Bob,

It depends on the type and amount of paint that was sprayed on the wiring and the amount of dirt that was on the wiring before it was painted. I ran into the same situation on my 75 convertible and my 56 Cadillac. I used laquer thinner in the areas where the paint was thinker and sprayed on a cleaner surface. However I was able to remove most of the paint using goo-gone or similar citrus baased cleaners. I like the citrus based stuff because it does an excellent job cleaning the wiring and wont harm the vinyl wrapping tape, the wiring or any connections. It's also easier on the lungs.

Good luck.

Eric