what's the best way to remove a clear lacquer finish from a metal object without disturbing the metal finish ? is there such a thing as lacquer remover ?
There sure is......it's called laquer thinner. Any automotive paint place will sell the stuff. If your only after a tiny amount some nail polish removers will do the same job as they are basically acetone.
Some of the so called lacquers are some other type of finish now and may be baked on. Lacquer thinner may work but you can also use most paint strippers. Some of them may "brighten" brass or copper however. Some of the chemicals in them will remove any tarnish if any on the finish and also might knock down the high polish. Usually it can be brought back with minor polishing however.
thanks guys. have all those here. will try acetone first. if that doesn't work, will try the others. funny how the obvious just always seems to avoid my mind !