Cleaning paint off aluminum

[Keanu151515]

i just picked up a new set of rims for the J 10. 15X10 aluminum rims for 175.
the PO took spray paint and painted them a wanna-be gloss black complete with runs. . .
i would like to clean the black paint off and polish up the aluminum
any ideas on the best way to remove the paint without hurting the aluminum?

[tgreese]

I'd first try lacquer thinner. Then try an organic solvent meant for graffiti removal and such, like "Goof Off." Comes in cans that you can get at the home center. Aircraft paint stripper is the next step up from there.

[joe]

Might try a paint stripper like ZipStrip . Works great on steel. Sorta like runny Jello brush the goop on, paint bubbles up, hose it off. Read the label though and make sure it's ok for alum. Be careful if ever used on car bodies. The stuff melts Bondo.

[five16]

I just finished a set. Use "Aircraft stripper" as I did. It costs $20 at any autopart store and is safe on aluminum. (BEWARE - protect yourself, it does burn on contact with your skin!!!) It only took about 1.5 hours for me to get all the paint off and required NO "elbow grease"

See my thread on how I did it and then show your own pics for us to drool over.

http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?t=143838&highlight=refurbing

Good luck!

[Keanu151515]

i had an idea that involved some wet sanding and serious elbow grease but ill give the aircraft remover a try, much less hard work:D