Here' s my two dollar:

1- you need to take the paint off to maintain detail, the thicker the paint the less detail you will get.

2- Use good Old pinesol soak the pieces in overnight. - Not good- for clear plastic or too soft plastic - and a toothbrush.

3- you can buy easy lift off here:

ELO - Easy Lift Off Remover - Floquil / Testors 8oz Can - eBay (item 360205046621 end time Oct-31-10 04:37:32 PDT)