How do I prep my cases for paint?

[thefox]

OK, I have the 200x engine apart to replace the output shaft. I would like to repaint the engine but how do I scrub it well enough to get the new paint to stick? Right now there is a lot of dirt and grim on the engine along with some loose paint. I would like to just sandblast it but I don’t think I can get the bearings out of the case hafts. What should I use to clean up the case?

[Hornetpowerspor]

I have used Zip Strip before. It is a household, and automotive paint and varnish remover. All you do is dump it on, and spread it around with a paint brush, let it set for an hour or so, then wash it off. It does a good job taking those old layers of paint off.

[Bryan Raffa]

a good oven cleaner works also, let it sit till its allmost dry

[Erics350x]

oven or whitewall cleaner works pretty good

[InPiEcEs]

I can tell you that if you want every last bit of finish off the cases, aircraft stripper will take off almost any finish, too. Brush it on, let it sit 15-20 minutes, longer yet is better, and scrape off, blow off, or wipe off the old finish. It sometimes takes another application for real stubborn spots. Then use some Prepsol or whatnot to clean the surface.If you just want them cleaned up, fast evaporating lacquer thinner worked well for me so far. if you want a cool look for your cases, besides silver or black, I used that hammered finish spray on the cases of my R and it looks sweet, plus, I noticed as it weathers, it starts to look more like the original gunmetal color my cases where originally. I noticed that from when I used it on the brushguard on my truck. If you want to hear a good one, I also have used the cheap ether with no upper cylinder lube, just straight ether, to clean one of my old motorcycle frames. It worked pretty good, and is still holding paint well after 5 years!

[edog]

You should go to a VIP or Napa to see if they have a blind bearing puller to borrow.Trust me you should replace the bearings in the cases.If you can sandblast it.

[nimda78]

first wash with high psi washer, hot water preferred then with a coarse {the red ones} scotch brite pads in 3x6 strips then folded and use kerosene as a solvent and scrub the hell outta it. the scotch pads will rough up the already bare spots, and feather the remaining enamel so it will be silky smooth for the fresh paint. i dont recommend primer, but a high quality high temp paint, in several thin layers just to complete coverage. too many layers of paint will cause overheating, and then the new paint will just and melt off and smell like hell in the process.