Paint Removal

[KoNickon]

Not original Leica black paint! I just got a IIIa that had been painted all over with glossy black enamel -- top and bottom plates and the body (the vulcanite was removed first). Fortunately, whoever did it masked the optics. The paint didn't adhere well to the top plate, so I was able to scrape it off using fingernails and toothpicks.

However, the bottom plate seems to have been better prepped, so it's not coming off easily. Any recommendations for a paint remover? I'd like something that I can brush on and let sit. Thanks!

 

[Greyscale]

If it is enamel paint, acetone (nail polish remover) should work. You could probably make a paste of acetone and corn starch for a brush-on remover. Just make sure to work in a well-ventilated are (like outdoors) and away from open flame.

 

[KoNickon]

Thought I would report back -- tried the acetone; not really optimal for this purpose as is since it's so volatile. Rather than trying to make a paste as Greyscale suggests, I came upon a citrus-based product called "CitriStrip." I put the bottom plate on a plastic dinner plate and sprayed it directly on the bottom plate. I probably should have sprayed some into a cup and painted it on, since it dissolved the plastic plate over time. But in any event, I left it on for maybe 4 hours, and it worked like a charm. Took the paint off with paper towels, without too much effort at all.

 

[Davidh1961]

I realise its an old thread but thought I would throw in my thoughts. If the parts have been repainted you could try the plastic modellers trick, Mr Muscle oven cleaner or Fairy power spray. Ive used the oven cleaner to great effect. Put the bits in a ziplock bag, liberally spray in the cleaner and leave overnight. It usually gets all the paint off nicely, might need help with a toothbrush to get into nooks and crannies and its safe to use on plastic, just make sure you rinse the parts after. Repeat if not all the paint was removed...there is no rush right?
No idea if it has any effect on the original paint used by the manufacturers but enamel and acrylic paints dissolve perfectly