Dude, it's your car. Do it your way. Just kinda thinking out loud here, but why would you want to restore back? Because of what it's supposed to be or because of other people's opinions or ??? Why would you consider keeping it as an AAR? Just think it over and do it your way and if you change...
On a K frame, easy off works.
Castrol super clean works and can be diluted.
Brake cleaner but could be harsh.
Take your pick. I would suggest the least aggressive. No need to use a solvent if something that's easily diluted and rinsed with water works.
If it's built up and caked, I would...
Your anchor point doesn't have to be in front of the car. You can move rearward with your strap or you could possibly go around the lower control arm. Is there a possibility of using a strap over the entire wheel/tire?