Sanding, buffing, stripping the fiberglass skin. . . Watch Out!

[bnlfan]

Okay, it may not be all that bad but. . .

I am removing the cracked decals on the side of my 86 Cheiftain during my referb.  I was a bit overzealous and saw a tiny hole appear.  So, be careful when you are working on sanding the skin.

I already have a few areas to patch so it won't be such a chore to fix that but, still.

[eXodus]

you did sand through the fiberglass ? 


you only have to get it flat and not sand until its gone


Sorry no offense. 

[Oz]

Wow, I didn't realize the fiberglass panels were that thin.  Or were you using like 500 grit and it just bit out too much? 


The aluminum skin on the old Winnebagos are really, really thin and that can easily happen to them.

[bnlfan]

I was using this black paint stripper that looks like a stiff sponge.  It goes on the drill and it spins at up to 4000 rpms and easily removes the decals. 

[Lefty]

Ummm,
THIS removes decals and striping...
http://www.amazon.com/3M-Stripe-Wheel-Mandrel-Diameter/dp/B00063VT0G

THIS removes rust, paint, corrosion, body filler, welding flux, burrs, etc.. It is for use on steel... such as frames, suspension pieces, tubing, etc.. I wouldn't use it on steel body panels though, unless I was stripping it to re-do bodywork... it would likely heat the metal up and warp it, or grind it away.
http://www.theruststore.com/Abrasives-P43C7.aspx?gclid=CM6ykbn2wsMCFQ4S7AodTyoAOA

[eXodus]

I was using this black paint stripper that looks like a stiff sponge.  It goes on the drill and it spins at up to 4000 rpms and easily removes the decals.

yeah it's a paint stripper, they can be very hard grained.

I decal stripper is softer. I wouldn't mess with a decal stripper if I would have to paint the whole thing new,  just sand it lightly paint everything an reapply the decals.

[bnlfan]

I used the 3m rubber eraser roller on one side.  Then when it wore down to the STOP HERE line I moved on to the stripper I had.  It worked better until I held it do long in one spot. :o)