Thanks for the info on stripping.  Actually, D. L., your "stronger"
mixture is pretty close to what I think is in stuff like Formby's
(Checker, other less expensive).

I have always used it on old radios and TVs, but the approach is to
moisten a steel wool pad and do a small area at a time.  The pad picks
up the soft finish and has to be wrung out frequently; it takes time
but it does nicely.  Obviously we are talking about much more area here
and I like your approach.

By the way, I have never had any problem with steel wool rusting.
Of course, I don't use any of the new water-based finishing products
either!  I usually use a tack rag just before finishing.  Thanks again.
:-)

Julian Brook