I have 98% of my 75 vette stripped...but the door jambs are hard to strip. I was wondering if I used a sanblaster with silica sand at about 90 psi would I be able to strip the paint in this area without damaging the fiberglasss. Since this is the door jamb and doesn't need to be perfectly smooth would I be able to get away with it? Any experiences?

Thanks,
Adam :seeya

 

I had a guy who specializes in restoring cars blast and paint mine. One of the only areas he didn't blast was the door jambs. He had two guys sand them out by hand. I didn't ask why at the time. I just assumed he thought that blasting in that area would mess up more than it fixed.

 

If I was going to attempt it I'd use media other than sand. Maybe walnut shells, or fine glass bead. I'd mask everything off with at least double tape on the edges, and I'd use a small pattern nozzle for more control.

 

Can I use walnut shells or plstic beads in a sandblasting box?

 

Yes, but the problem is that it is nearly impossible to stay at an angle to all sides of a door jam contour. Even walnut shells can tear into fiberglass @ 90 psi. If you are very experienced with blasting then you may get some benefit from only blasting moderately and leaving more material behind the usual, and do the rest by hand.

I’m about at the same place as you with my car. I don’t plan on blasting it at all. The whole care will be sanded by hand using various length flexible blocks before and after priming.

 

Do yourself a favor and avoid sandblasting....too close to working parts & there is also sealant in there that you might damage. Best & easiest is an orbital pad sander,elbow grease,and 80 grit paper followed by 150. A little work but you can get it done in a couple of hours. Just did mine recently. Wrap the paper around some soft rubber or even a dry sponge to save your fingers when getting in the tight spots.