Chloe Zhang
Painting an RC car body can be a challenging but rewarding task, allowing you to add a personal touch and make your car stand out. The process is similar to painting any RC body, but there are some key differences to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling paint fumes. Before painting, thoroughly clean the RC body with warm water and non-abrasive dish soap to remove any dust, oil, or debris. If it's a new body, trim it to fit your vehicle's specifications, and sand down any rough edges. When it comes to the painting process itself, it's recommended to paint Lexan/polycarbonate bodies from the inside, as this will protect the paint from scratches and chipping. Use masking tape to block off sections you don't want to paint, and consider using a marker to draw your design beforehand as a guide. Choose the right type of paint, such as acrylic paint designed for Lexan or polycarbonate surfaces, and apply it carefully, working in thin coats. With the right tools, preparation, and creativity, you can achieve a unique and impressive paint job for your RC car.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint | Polycarbonate paint, Lexan/polycarbonate-compatible paint, acrylic paint |
| Paint brand | Tamiya, Proline RC Body Paint, Duratrax Polycarb Spray |
| Paint type | Spray paint, airbrush paint |
| Paint surface | Paint the inside of the body, not the outside |
| Paint preparation | Wash the body with soap and water, dry with a soft, lint-free cloth |
| Paint application | Apply masking tape to sections that are not to be painted, use a hobby knife to cut out shapes, peel off tape after paint dries |
| Paint adhesion | Apply a thin, clear spray paint over the body to prevent peeling |
| Paint design | Use a marker to draw a design, use liquid mask or masking tape to create a paint scheme |
| Paint protection | Apply a clear coat of varnish over decals to protect them from damage |
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What You'll Learn
Planning your design
If you're creating a complex design, you can use a permanent marker to draw your design directly on the RC body before applying masking tape and paint. This will provide a blueprint for your design and ensure that you don't make any mistakes during the painting process. You can also use designs that you print off from the internet to achieve more intricate effects. Keep in mind that more elaborate designs will take longer to complete.
Another option is to use masking tape or liquid masking products to create your design. Masking tape is inexpensive, easy to apply, and requires no dry time. However, it can bleed in tight corners if it's not fully pressed down. Liquid masking, on the other hand, allows for more complicated designs and reduces the chances of bleeding. It is also easier to mark and cut, resulting in crisper lines. However, it requires a longer drying time, usually overnight.
When using masking tape, apply it to all the areas you want to keep paint-free, such as windows and light buckets. Make sure to press the edges firmly to ensure clean and crisp paint lines. You can also use pre-cut adhesive shapes, such as circles or stars, to add a new dimension to your design.
It's important to choose the right paint for your RC car body. Most RC car bodies are made of polycarbonate Lexan, a transparent and durable plastic that requires special paint. Polycarbonate paint, such as TAMIYA PS spray paints, is designed specifically for polycarbonate surfaces and provides a long-lasting finish. For plastic add-on parts like mirrors and spoilers, use TAMIYA TS paints.
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Trimming the body
Firstly, it is recommended to trim the body before painting. This allows you to have more control over the trimming process and avoid any mistakes that could occur if you trimmed after painting. It is also easier to centre the body before painting. However, some people prefer to paint first to avoid having to deal with overspray and to have more places to hold the body while painting. If you choose to trim before painting, make sure to leave a little extra material along the edges, which can be used as a guide for spraying.
When trimming, you will need the right tools. It is recommended to use an X-Acto knife or similar to score the line you want to cut, and then snap the piece off. You can also use Lexan scissors, which are designed for cutting through the tough material. A Dremel tool with a sanding barrel attachment can be useful for cleaning up small contours and edges. Sandpaper, preferably 350-400 grit, can also help to smooth out any rough edges.
Before trimming, it is important to locate the body posts and mark the centre with a scoring knife. This will make it easier to find the right spot to drill after painting. You should also trim the wheel wells, especially for on-road cars, as it can be difficult to get an exact match to your wheelbase otherwise. If you are having trouble seeing the lines, use a permanent marker to trace over them.
After trimming, you will need to finish the edges. Sanding the edges will help to smooth them out and create a clean finish. You can use sandpaper or a rotary tool with a sanding barrel attachment for this step. Once the edges are finished, you can apply masking tape to protect the body during painting.
Finally, it is important to note that there is no right or wrong way to trim an RC car body. The process may vary depending on your personal preference and the specific car you are working on. Always take your time and be careful when trimming to avoid any mistakes.
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Washing the body
To prepare your RC car body for painting, it's important to start with a thorough cleaning process. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and help you achieve a smooth and professional-looking finish. Here's a detailed guide on washing the body of your RC car:
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies: a mild dish soap, warm water, a sink or basin, paper towels or clean cloths, and a hair dryer or fan (optional). If you want to be extra cautious, you can also get some latex gloves to avoid transferring oil from your fingers onto the surface of the car body.
Start by mixing a solution of mild dish soap and warm water in your sink or basin. You can use liquid detergent or a trusted brand of dish soap like Dawn. The water should be warm enough to help loosen any dirt or residue on the car body. Soak a paper towel or clean cloth in this soapy solution and gently scrub the entire surface of the RC car body. Pay special attention to tight curved areas and corners and any nooks and crannies where dirt might be hiding. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to help dislodge any stubborn dirt particles.
After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the car body with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that all soap residue is removed, as this can interfere with the paint application. Use a microfiber cloth or a hair dryer to gently wipe down or blow-dry the car body. It is crucial that the body is completely dry before you proceed with the next steps.
Once the body is dry, you can perform an additional cleaning step to ensure the surface is truly ready for painting. Use a clean cloth and some rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) to give the car body a final wipe-down. This will remove any remaining residue and help prepare the surface for optimal paint adhesion.
Throughout the cleaning process, be mindful not to touch the inside of the car body with your bare fingers, as the natural oils from your skin can transfer and affect the paint application. If you do accidentally touch the surface, simply repeat the cleaning process to ensure a grease-free canvas for your paint job.
Now that your RC car body is clean and ready, you can move on to the next steps of the painting process, such as scuffing the surface, masking off areas, and, of course, the fun part—applying the paint! Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific paint you've chosen and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable painting experience.
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Applying a base coat
Painting an RC car body is an exciting task, especially if you are doing it for the first time. The process is quite simple, and you can easily fix it if you make a mistake. You can use your creativity and individualism to create a unique paint job for your RC car.
To apply a base coat, start by preparing the surface of the RC car body. Wash the body with warm soapy water to remove any dust, oil, or debris. You can use a household dish soap and a paper towel to scrub and clean the body, paying special attention to tight curved areas and corners. Once the body is clean and dry, you can begin masking off the areas you don't want to paint. Use high-quality masking tape and firmly press it down to prevent paint from seeping underneath and creating jagged edges. If you are using a complex design, you can draw your design with a permanent marker over the masking tape to create a blueprint for your painting.
Next, choose the right paint for your RC car body. Polycarbonate or Lexan bodies require polycarbonate or Lexan-compatible paints. These paints are designed specifically for use on polycarbonate surfaces and will adhere properly, preventing cracking and flaking. Tamiya offers a range of polycarbonate PS spray paints that are ideal for painting clear plastic RC car bodies.
Now, you are ready to apply the base coat. If your RC car body is made of polycarbonate or Lexan, you will need to paint it from the inside. This is because the shine and sheen of the body come from the reflective nature of the Lexan itself, and painting the inside protects the paint from chipping and scratches. Before you begin painting, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling paint fumes. Use an airbrush or a spray can to apply the paint in thin, even layers. Start by spraying the area you want to paint in your darkest colour first, then work from dark to light. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next layer.
Once you have applied the base coat, you can move on to the next steps of your design, such as adding decals or applying a clear topcoat. Remember to take your time, plan your design in advance, and work carefully to achieve the best results.
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Painting the body
Preparation:
Before you start painting, it's important to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling paint fumes. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials, including paint, brushes, masking tape, a hobby knife, and a clean work area. If your RC body is new, trim it to fit your vehicle's specifications. Place the body over the chassis to test the fit and mark the areas that need adjustments. Use smooth and precise cutting tools, such as curved bi-scissors, to trim the body. Sand down any rough edges to ensure a smooth surface for painting.
Cleaning:
Thoroughly clean the RC body before painting to remove any dust, debris, or oils. Use warm water and a mild, non-abrasive dish soap for cleaning. Rinse the body thoroughly and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. This step is crucial to ensure that your paint adheres properly to the surface.
Design and Masking:
If you're creating a complex design, use a permanent marker to draw your design directly on the RC body. This will guide you during the painting process. Cover the parts of the body that you don't want to paint with masking tape. Firmly press down the tape to prevent paint from seeping underneath and causing jagged edges. If you're using decals, apply them after the paint has dried, and consider adding a clear coat of varnish to protect them.
Painting:
When choosing paint, opt for acrylic paint designed specifically for RC cars and Lexan/polycarbonate bodies. These paints adhere properly to the plastic surface and flex with the material. Wash the body with soap and water to remove any residue before painting. If your RC body has a pre-applied overspray film, leave it on during the painting process to protect the outside of the body. Spray or brush on 2-3 wet coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Always follow the instructions provided with your chosen paint for the best results.
Finishing:
Once you've completed your paint job, remove any masking tape and decals carefully to avoid peeling the paint. If you've used an overspray film, remove it at this stage. To add shine and protect your paint job, spray a thin coat of clear spray paint designed for polycarbonate Lexan. Allow this final coat to dry for about 30 minutes to an hour before taking your RC car for a spin!
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Frequently asked questions
First, ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area. If your RC car body does not have an overspray film on its exterior, cover the inside with a plastic bag, taping it in place to prevent paint from getting inside. Next, thoroughly wash the body with warm water and non-abrasive dish soap, removing any dust and debris. Dry the body with a soft, lint-free cloth. If your RC body is new, place it over the chassis and trim it to fit your vehicle's specifications. Smooth any rough edges with sandpaper.
RC car bodies are typically made from Lexan or polycarbonate, a sturdy, flexible plastic material. You should use paints designed for these materials, such as Tamiya's PS spray paints for polycarbonate bodies and TS paints for plastic add-on parts. For Lexan bodies, use acrylic paints, which adhere well to this type of plastic.
First, use masking tape to cover any sections of the body that you do not want to paint. Then, apply your paint. If you are using multiple colours, paint from dark to light, leaving the darkest sections clear and painting them first. You can use a paintbrush, but an airbrush allows for more precise and even layers.
