How can I remove paint from a wood deck so I can stain it?
Rent a drum sander and run it in line with the boards.  You can take off a large amount of wood in short order depending on the grit of paper you use.  Then use a sanding disc with a backer on a grinder for detail work where the drum will not go.  We used 36 grit to bring some weathered wood back; probably took of over 1/4" off the top in that case!  Total out of pocket should be around $200-$250 for everything.