how to get dried paint off rubber?

[Duct Tape Man]

I have some old hydraulic lines that have old dried spray paint on them, part of a tractor resto that me and my brother are working on. Most of the paint is dried and flaky, and I can slowly remove it with my fingernails or a pocket knife blade. However, some of it is light paint overspray with no "hard" edges that I can pry off. Normally, if these were smaller lines that needed to be replaced anyways, I'd just chuck the lines and get new ones. However, these are long lines that would be expensive to replace, and they aren't in bad shape otherwise so no need to replace them.

I thought using a brass wire wheel might work but I am worried about damaging the lines.

What chemical would you all recommend that might be good for removing dried paint from hydraulic lines? Might also be good for rubber trim on cars, trucks, etc.

 

[Jazz1]

Oven cleaner or lacquer thinner

 

[BonzoHansen]

try a mr cleaner magic eraser

 

[MBfreak]

Hi.
When restoring overpainted but otherwise good window seals for cars ( the lip type) I have used a spray called " Armor All" Put the parts in a plastig bag, spray with lots of Armor All, close the bag and let sit for some days.
The paint and all other garbage stuck in the rubber surface will be loose and a spray with hot water will finish the job.
I think it will work very well for your hoses

The Armor All spray is probably what (in Swedish) is calle " Hypalon Liquid" used in the rubber vulcanizing industry to loosen vulcanized rubber parts from the steel mold. Expensive, but really good.

Ola

 

[BUGTHUG]

I have used the Tub of Towles, can get at Auto Zone and O'reilys. This stuff works good on cleaning everything, I always have a plastic tub in all my cars. Love it

 

[kerrynzl]

Painters "Wax and Grease Remover" and a Scotch Pad

 

[9c1nova]

I use orange citrus hand cleaner, regular or the one with grit for stubborn stains or paint. I have cleaned original, 40 year old radiator hoses to get down to the original part number with great success. Try it in an inconspicuous spot to start. Apply with a cloth or tooth brush.

Bruce

 

[rustyjames]

I would try paint remover, but don't leave it on too long.