Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[bob2]

I have just acquired a couple of 40's phillips bicycles and they need some restoration. The thing annoying me most is the fact that all the chrome has been painted in silver paint. How can I remove this paint without damaging the chrome plating underneath?
Most probably the chrome will not be in the best of condition but I'd rather see some rust pitting on it rather then have it painted!

[Miken]

Cellulose thinners and a rag

[D4B]

[Bitumen Boy]

Or alternatively, if it's a heavier coating, I've successfully used chemical paintstrippers to clean up old chrome plating on several occasions. It won't do it any harm. Rubber or plastic gauntlets are a very good idea, as are soft bristled brushes (old toothbrushes are good) to agitate it a bit.

[bob2]

Thanks guys, thinner had not crossed my mind and I was afraid of using paint strippers in case the chrome plating might get damaged too!
I'll start with thinners and then if not successful try a small amount of paint stripper.