A method of repairing a component removes a prior coating from an underlying metal substrate. Small cooling air holes extend through the substrate and the coating that is to be removed. A new coating layer is placed on the metal substrate, and over the existing cooling air holes. The location of the cooling air holes is identified by inspecting the coated component for the location of indicators of the coating passing over the cooling air holes. The identified location of the indicators is used to control a cutting tool to remove any new coating from the cooling air holes. The basic method may also benefit new manufacture.