Stripping paint from 73 challenger header panel

[dave73chally]

I need to strip the paint off the header panel on my 73 challenger. What is the best way to do this since its fiberglass? Was thinking of looking for a local shop that does soda blasting, is that recommended?

[Bullitt-]

Absolutely DO NOT media blast fiberglass.   
Chemicals can be used, these guys have several ideas  http://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c1-and-c2-corvettes/2813678-stripping-old-paint-from-fiberglass-corvette.html

[jimynick]

We always used a gel stripper back in the day on all the Vette's we did. As mentioned, wash it off afterwards with thinners and then we'd sand the glass with 120 to give it some "tooth" for the primer. Watch the stripper (no puns intended) because the tiniest spec will burn you. Wear protective gear AND eye protection for sure! 

[burdar]

Do you HAVE to strip it?  On my car, they just lightly sanded it and feathered out any of the rock chips.  If you have a lot of paint layers on it then it's another story.

[dave73chally]

Do you HAVE to strip it?  On my car, they just lightly sanded it and feathered out any of the rock chips.  If you have a lot of paint layers on it then it's another story.

There's 2 paint layers at the least that I can tell. The top layer has been chipping away causing 2 different paint heights. I figured my best bet was to strip it down completely.

[dave73chally]

I'm thinking I'll just sand it. What grit would you recommend I start with and taper down to?

[jimynick]

Can you sand the chocolate chips out of a cookie?  That's not too far off as an analogy here. The paint'll be harder than the 'glass and it's right tricky to avoid chewing the 'glass up. If you're bound and determined, I'd use 120 and see how that cuts/works for you. If you only want the paint off the flats, try a DA sander but mind your manners with it. Good luck