The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Two questions:
1. Can I use a light coating of citrus stripper to remove spray paint from old nickel-plated brass?

2. What do you use to polish old, imperfect nickel plating?

These questions are about a historic bathroom fixture rather than a phonograph, but I figured this was a good place to go for advice. We have a century-old nickel-plated standing waste drain that someone spray-painted in a dull silver color. I started painstakingly removing the paint with 0000 steel wool, and the plating looks like it's in good shape.

A preservationist told me I could use a citrus stripper without damaging the nickel plating, but I wanted to get a range of opinions before I try it. He also mentioned that auto supply stores have polishing agents that work well in nickel plating, but he couldn't remember what is those agents are called.

Citrus stripper won't hurt nickel plating, but the reason the parts were painted is probably because the original plating was bad or missing... So, you will uncover whatever led to that decision.

Thank you! I'm actually quite confident that the nickel plating beneath is in good shape. I've already exposed more than half of it through painstaking work with 0000 steel wool. The previous owner spray painted the fixture and the copper pipes that feed it so that they would have the same color and finish.

Acetone, (nail polish remover), is excellent for removing spray paint. I wouldn't go near nickle plating with 0000 steel wool.

Thanks. I was also concerned about the steel wool, but I have used it with excruciating caution, which is why it's taking so very long. Also, it used it on the authority of a video from dyslexic genius hurt, whose videos I find very helpful and informative.