Doc if you can afford a new body and or/neck I'd start fresh. Otherwise get some paint stripper and let is soak in a few times and the paint should come off pretty easily. It's very easy to rush a build but next time you will take your time. As you say you have all the hardware so see what Ads will do a new body for and if you need a new neck as well.

I can't stop laughing about a 146 page build diary bwhahahahah no one will come close - ever !