Best method to remove paint

[RocketSapp]

I just picked up a used tank and it has paint on three of the sides of the tank. I think it used to be a built in tank so even the sides were painted. I want to remove the paint from at least the sides of the tank, what is suggested as the best method of removing the paint?

I want to make sure I don't damage the seals on the tank.


Tim

 

[BL1]

I just used a paint scrapper with a razor blade on mine when I had to remove paint from it.

 

[RocketSapp]

I just used a paint scrapper with a razor blade on mine when I had to remove paint from it.

It just seemed that a razor blade would increase the chances of the glass being scratched. Since I am not planning on repainting the sides, I am worried about scratches.


Tim

 

[BL1]

The scrapers worked fine for me and didn't create any scratches on the tank. The package it came in said it was for use on glass like windows and doors.

 

[Smitty]

+1 Brian...a scraper would be your best bet.

 

[Bifferwine]

I used an environmentally friendly paint remover (it was like orangish-pinkish goop) to remove paint from one of my tanks. I was careful to not get it on the edges, and used a blade to scrape the paint off near the seams.

 

[RockStacker]

I used an environmentally friendly paint remover (it was like orangish-pinkish goop) to remove paint from one of my tanks. I was careful to not get it on the edges, and used a blade to scrape the paint off near the seams.

I used a similar product to remove old paint from my tank when I rebuilt it.
Just cover the tank's trim with painter's tape so that it does not melt the plastic/glue.
Also, cover the tank's top so that none of the cleaner gets into the tank's interior.

With the product I used, I just sprayed over the paint and spread it around with a sponge.
Then after a few minutes I was able to peel off most of the paint.
I still had to use a scraper on some of the tough spots but it saved me a ton of time.

Just to be on the safe side, I rinsed the heck out of the tank to make sure no residue remained on the glass.

 

[RocketSapp]

Well, I did not have any chemical paint remover, but I did have about 100 or so razor blades. After about 10 blades and one blister later, all of the paint from the sides have been removed.

It did such a great job I used them to scrape off all the "stuff" from the inside of the tank. I dont think the previous owner of the tank cleaned the glass very often. I have also decided to cut out all the silicone and reseal the tank. So the blades are getting even more use.

Tim