Determining How Much Paint Needs to Be Removed

• First you need to determine how much paint you need to remove, and the areas on the car where it needs to be removed. Fully body paint removal will require more time, more materials, and more precision. If there is only one area (a door, the hood, one side panel) that needs to be worked on, save yourself the time and trouble of stripping the entire vehicle and keep your efforts and attention limited to the specific area of need.
  
  

Using Brush-on Chemical Paint Remover

• If you have chosen to limit the removal to one specific area, a brush-on chemical paint remover will work well. You will need a face mask as you begin the project because both the chemical paint remover and the paint being removed are harmful to inhale. Start by sanding the area you wish to strip with 100 grit sand paper. You can do this by hand, but be sure to apply plenty of pressure and try to keep the pressure even throughout. Your objective with the sanding is to sand down the layer of sealant on the paint and open it up for the chemical remover to do its work.
  
  Once you have sanded down the first layer, wipe clean the surface of dust. Apply the chemical paint remover evenly. Allow it to sit on the surface until the paint begins bubbling and cracking. At this point, you may begin scraping away the layers. Continue to apply the paint remover until you are left with clean metal. Once you have removed all of the layers, be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water to clean it of the paint remover. If left on, the remover will interact and negatively affect future painting of the area and may begin to damage the metal.
  
  

Stripping the Entire Vehicle of Paint

• Removing paint from the whole vehicle is very time consuming, but still relatively simple. You will need an electric sander and 80 grit sandpaper. Only apply as much pressure to the electric grinder as necessary to keep it evenly moving across the surface of the car. Your goal is to remove the top layer of paint with the electric grinder.
  
  Once the first layer is removed, wipe the surface clean with water and a towel. This will allow you to see the progress you've made. Using 120 grit sand paper and an electric sander, sand until you reach the metal below the paint. This will take a considerable amount of time. If you are struggling with specific areas, you may want to apply chemical paint remover. The only reason this is not ideal for the entire car is the price involved in purchasing enough brush-on remover to cover the whole car. If you use the paint remover, be sure to rinse it thoroughly. The car is now bare, and as such, the metal is exposed to the elements. Make sure the car stays dry and protected until you are able to repaint or at least prime the surface.