Thanks George and Roger.

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BTW removing paint may lead to rust problems in the future. Always repaint over the bonded connection after it's all terminated and tightened.

The removal of paint is required by 250.12 if it is inhibiting the connection.

So IMO if reducing washers or chase nipples are used the paint would have to be removed to ensure grounding continuity.

Bob Badger
Construction & Maintenance Electrician
Massachusetts