Richard,
When you use a liquid stripper you have disposal and cleaning issues that also take a lot of time and effort. Sandblasting is a very poor choice due to the long term effects to the equipment. Tape as you will, you can not prevent prevent sand from getting into places that will cause major damage in the long run. Based on many years of experience, there just isn't a "magic bullet". In spite of the required labor involved, I feel you are doing it the overall best way.