Sandblasting is the quickest method of removing autobody paint.
Sandblasting is the quickest, most effective method of stripping automotive paint from bare metal. The procedure prepares the optimal surface for adhesion when priming and painting a vehicle. Sandblasting dispenses sand and alternative ground "media" for blasting painted surfaces. Not only does it almost instantly dissolve paint--it also removes rust and surface imperfections from metal. However convenient sandblasting is, it does require that special precautions be taken to avoid unintentional damage to the painted panels.
Instructions
1. Purchase the appropriate media for the project: An adequate all-purpose media for removing paint from automotive body panels is 36-grit silica sand, which is high in purity. Various grades of aluminum oxide and glass bead are other equally effective alternatives, but they tend to be more expensive.
2. Remove all of the targeted body panels from the vehicle for ideal preparation. If you do not have professional assistance or knowledge of the proper removal method for your vehicle's make and model, use masking paper layered with painter's tape to cover the areas of the car that you do not wish to sandblast.
3. Thoroughly ventilate your workspace and ensure that there is ample space around the car. Wear protective eye goggles, gloves and a painter's suit with a hood to thoroughly cover your body.
4. Shut off all the valves on the sandblaster unit and fill it with approximately 40 pounds (depending on the unit) of silica sand or other choice of media. Start the compressor and open the air line to pressurize the tank to between 40 and 100 PSI (pounds per square inch).
5. Stand at least 8 to 16 inches from the targeted body panel, then begin sandblasting at a low PSI setting. Gradually increase the pressure setting until the paint is cleanly removed, using short bursts for small segments and a sweeping motion for larger spots.
