I still have my Fortes from '91 that were originally had the black finish on them and I did remove it, and if I remember correctly, I believe that I used something from Formby's. Used a foam brush to apply it and basically followed the instructions as to how long to leave it on there.
If I recall, there wasnt a bad smell from it, but it can get quite messy, so if you plan on doing this inside, lay down some newspaper or card board boxes to protect the flooring.
If I recall, there wasnt a bad smell from it, but it can get quite messy, so if you plan on doing this inside, lay down some newspaper or card board boxes to protect the flooring.