Dumb question about paint removal

[MariaAZ]

I know it's probably not a very intelligent question, but... is there a way to remove an after-market top coat of paint without removing the original bottom coat? The PO of my '74 260Z painted over the original Persimmon with a "home job" red. I've been able to peel off the red paint from around the windows, and the paint underneath looks pretty good & maybe not even sanded before painting. The "new" paint job has the dreaded orange-peel appearance & it's going to have to come off anyway.

Is there any way to remove this upper coat? It's driving me nuts... aside from the fact I like Persimmon, I have red body panels on the outside, and Persimmon under the hood, inside the doors, etc.

[Ed]

Maybe try a high pressure water hose? Can't really think of anything else.

[hls30.com]

800 grit sandpaper, water and a massive smathering of elbow grease!

Will

[MariaAZ]

Elbow grease is no problem, I've got plenty of that! As for the sanding... any opinions on using an orbital sander for at least part of the operation?

[beandip]

Stright ans. you will need to sand the whole car down and repaint. There is no way on God's green earth , that you will be able to remove the top coat with out destroying the origional top coat. From what you said about pealing . All the top coat must be removed no doubt about it. Sorry ! Not all the origional paint will necessarly need to be removed but it cannot be saved as a finish. If you like the orange then repaint the car the color of the engine bay. This will save a hell of a lot of work. All the best . gary

[26th-Z]

I agree completely with beandip. Sand the car down completely and paint it. I'll bet the peeling around the windows is from years of silicone rubber dressing. Make sure you get a good surface prep in those areas. Now is the perfect time to replace the rubber, too.

[Ed]

I've been able to peel off the red paint from around the windows, and the paint underneath looks pretty good & maybe not even sanded before painting.

Try the high pressure water. I've seen it work and it's the cheapest/easiest way. Don't bother using one of those "car wash" or electric power washers. Those suck 800-1500 psi max. You want to use a gas operated 2500 psi power washer! Start where the paint is peeling and watch it go.