How To Remove Paint From Chrome Trim?

[Moto-Mucci]

The PO of my car sprayed the inner chrome window trim flat black. it looks like he didn't prep/scuff the chrome at all - some of the paint is chipping off.

Is there a specific solvent or some technique I could use to remove the paint without harming the chrome underneath?

I was just thinking mineral spirits or paint stripper - just looking to see if someone has a good technique or different medium.

[DRTSRFR]

...sounds like they didn't do a good prep. The first thing I woulD try is straight brake clean.

[318isbmw]

On some chrome on another project I've used aircraft paint remover, you can get it at schucks. Don't let it sit on long, but it'll strip the paint away pretty well w/o messing up chrome.

[DRTSRFR]

If it's true chrome, stripper will work, but if it's coated in any other way, the stripper will eat the coating. Some of the trim is coated stainless.

[der affe]

wipe it down with thinner. it will take a little more effort than stripper, but if oyu are concerned about it harming the trim, that is the safest way.

[Moto-Mucci]

thanks

[Need4Speed1299]

A quick method, but still needs some patience. Put some tape around it so you dont scuff or sand anything you dont want to. If it was painted on thick, try some 360 grit sand paper. Then, use some automotive scrotch brite to smooth it out.

[Moto-Mucci]

Using 320 grit on chrome is definitely not the solution.

[Leaf]

Using 320 grit on chrome is definitely not the solution.

this

[ubernasty]

I thought that trim was aluminum.

[Moto-Mucci]

taking 320 grit to any mirror surface isn't a good idea.

[88ratrod325]

I hate to disagree, but any smooth, shiny surface happens through abrasives. Sandpaper is exactly what you need. :)

I'm pretty sure it's not chrome. More than likely, it's stainless. DRTSRFR is correct- stainless trim usually has a coating on it that you don't want to damage. However, if the coating is already damaged (which it usually is), you should sand and polish it. You'll be able to tell by the yellowish clear crap peeling off.

Protect the non-shiny parts. Start with 320-400 grit to take the remaining coating off, then use 600, then 1000, and then start polishing with a dremel/buffer and a metal polishing compound. It'll shine right up- I'm full of crap, to do it right is pretty tedious. It looks awesome though.

Chrome is cheap, stainless is forever. :)

I could be wrong of course- so don't start sanding until you're sure it's not chrome! ;)

[ubernasty]

It isn't chrome.