Title
The Safe Way To Strip Paint With CSC

Author
Gator

Published
Tuesday, February 28, 2006

There always seems to be some questions about the use and safety of CSC (Castrol Super Clean) as we use it for stripping paint. I will give you a quick run down on its use and safety precautions.

First CSC is a water soluble automotive degreaser that can be purchased at most auto parts stores and comes in one gallon containers. It is normally diluted to some degree for its intended usage but we will use it full strength hence the added safety precautions.

Things you will need for stripping paint safely.

Jug of CSC. A plastic container large enough for your car body with a snap on lid. I also use a small container for cleaning air brush bottles and parts. Disposable gloves. Safety glasses. Note: I am going to err on the safe side for this tutorial. At the very least you will need the gloves, an old tooth brush, paper towels and some newspaper.



On a good solid surface place your container on a couple of sheets of newspaper (to catch any spills.) Then gently pour the CSC in to the container at a depth that will cover the body to be stripped.



Then carefully place the body and any other parts to be stripped in the liquid and snap on the lid. At this point I would recommend moving the container to a safe location if you will be working around it to avoid knocking it over.



CSC will strip enamel, acrylic, chrome and some lacquers. It will usually start to work in about four to six hours. At this point you can check the condition of the paint. Place the container again on the newspaper and using the gloves and eye protection, rub the paint to check if it will rub off. If it will use the tooth brush to gently brush off the loose paint. Note: Keep the body submerged as much as possible while brushing to minimize splattering. If any paint remains, close the container and let it soak longer and repeat the process until all the paint is removed.



Once all the paint has been stripped you can remove the body and wrap it in the paper towels to transport it to where you can rinse it off. I use the kitchen sink since CSC is water soluble.





Once it's rinsed just wash with warm soapy water and you're set to start painting again. Don't let the nice color and aroma fool you. CSC is a very caustic product and all precautions should be taken to keep it off your skin and out of your eyes. Even if it does not burn you, the harsh chemicals can get into your system by being absorbed through your skin.