Stripping paint from Kato shells

[Erik W]

I know this has been covered on various forums over the years, but having been out of the hobby for the last few years, is there any reliable way of removing paint from Kato locomotive shells?  Or is it still a matter of picking a technique that you hope won't ruin the shell?

Thanks,
Erik

[Scottl]

I had troubles with a Kato shell a few months back, but soaking it in 99% isopropanol for 5 days took off even a stubborn CSX logo.

[Erik W]

I had troubles with a Kato shell a few months back, but soaking it in 99% isopropanol for 5 days took off even a stubborn CSX logo.

Scott,

Did soaking the shell that long soften the plastic . . .  or cause it to become brittle? 

Erik

[Scottl]

Normally, 99% works right away, but I had a SD70ACe in CSX colors and the long hood logo took five days before it came loose with light toothbrush scrubbing.  There was no sign of any change to the plastic and it handled drilling with a rotary tool. 

[Bob Bufkin]

Glad you brought this subject up since I've got an SD-45 on the way I want to strip and repaint into PRR.