Ethan Clarke
Spray painting an RC car is a fun and easy way to give your vehicle a new look. To ensure the paint job is durable and looks great, it's important to properly prepare the plastic surface before you start spraying. This process includes choosing the right paint, cleaning the body, using primer and sanding, and applying the paint in thin, even coats. Let's dive into the details of each step to ensure your RC car gets the makeover it deserves!
How to prep a plastic RC car for spray paint
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Clean the car body | Use warm, soapy water or a polycarbonate-body-cleaner to remove dirt and grease |
| Primer | Use a plastic primer to help the paint stick |
| Sanding | Use fine sandpaper or steel wool to lightly scratch the surface. For larger parts, sand by hand. For smaller, more detailed parts, do not sand |
| Temperature | Spray paint at room temperature or gently warm it with a hairdryer |
| Distance | Keep a distance of 25-30 cm from the car body |
| Direction | Always spray in one direction: horizontal, vertical, or diagonal |
| Coats | Apply several thin coats of paint, rather than one or two thick coats |
| Drying | Let the paint dry for about an hour between coats |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the plastic RC car with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly
When preparing a plastic RC car for spray painting, one of the most important steps is to ensure the surface is clean. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and that your final paint job looks neat and professional. Here is a detailed guide on how to clean a plastic RC car with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly.
Firstly, gather your supplies. You will need a bucket or basin, warm water, a mild dish soap or detergent, and some soft cloths or sponges. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from the soap and water. Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to allow for proper airflow during the cleaning and drying process.
Fill the bucket or basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap or detergent. You want to create a soapy mixture that is effective at cutting through grease and grime but is not too strong, as harsh chemicals or strong detergents can potentially damage the plastic. Test the mixture on a small, inconspicuous area of the RC car first to ensure it does not cause any discolouration or damage.
Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently dip it into the soapy water and wring out any excess liquid. You want the cloth to be damp, not dripping wet. Begin wiping down the RC car, paying close attention to areas with built-up dirt, grease, or grime. Be gentle around sensitive components and avoid getting any water inside electronic parts. If there are hard-to-reach areas, you can use a soft-bristled brush to gently dislodge any dirt.
Once you have thoroughly cleaned the RC car, rinse your cloth or sponge with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. Go over the entire car again to ensure all soap has been removed. You can also use a second, clean cloth or sponge for this step if preferred. Pay close attention to crevices or details where soap may have collected.
Finally, dry the RC car thoroughly. Use a soft, absorbent cloth to gently pat down and dry the surface. Ensure you get into all the nooks and crannies, as trapped moisture can lead to issues like mould or paint adhesion problems later on. You may also want to leave the car to air dry for a while, especially if it has intricate details or hard-to-reach areas. Ensure the car is completely dry before you proceed with any further preparation steps or begin spray painting.
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Use fine sandpaper or steel wool to scuff the body
When prepping a plastic RC car for spray painting, it is important to clean the body of the car thoroughly with warm, soapy water, and then dry it completely. This is because even a small amount of oil from your hands can prevent the paint from sticking to the body.
The next step is to scuff the body of the RC car with fine sandpaper or steel wool. This is a crucial step as it helps the paint adhere better to the surface. It is recommended to use very fine sandpaper (grit level of 1000 or above) or steel wool to lightly scratch the surface of the RC body. Be careful not to scuff areas that will not be painted, such as the windows, as the scratches will be visible. This process will help create a rough surface for the paint to stick to, improving the overall finish and longevity of your paint job.
Some sources suggest using micromesh instead of sandpaper for sanding RC car bodies, but this may be more relevant for hard-body cars. It is also important to note that if you are using a primer, you may need to wet sand between coats to ensure the paint adheres properly.
Once you have finished scuffing the body, you can move on to the painting stage. It is recommended to start by spraying away from the car onto cardboard to get a feel for the pressure and to avoid spurts and splatters. Then, move towards the RC body and begin spraying in light, thin coats, allowing each coat to dry before adding another. This will help prevent bleeding under masked areas and reduce the chances of the paint running, chipping, or flaking when dry.
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Choose a well-ventilated area or go outdoors
When preparing to spray paint your RC car, choosing the right work area is crucial. Spray paint produces fumes that can be harmful if inhaled, so it is important to select a well-ventilated area or to work outdoors. Working outdoors is ideal because it provides fresh air and helps to prevent the buildup of fumes. If you choose to work inside, make sure the room is spacious and has proper ventilation. Open all the windows and doors to create a cross-breeze, which will help to dissipate the fumes and provide you with fresh air to breathe.
Consider setting up your workspace in a garage or shed, which can offer some protection from the elements while still providing adequate ventilation. If you opt for this option, ensure that the space is well-lit and that you have enough room to manoeuvre around the car comfortably. Additionally, it is advisable to cover any nearby surfaces or items that you do not want to get painted. Use old sheets, plastic tarps, or cardboard to protect the surrounding area.
If you decide to work outdoors, choose a calm day with little to no wind. While ventilation is important, strong winds can cause dust and debris to stick to the wet paint, ruining your finish. Pick a spot in your yard or driveway that is level and clear of any obstacles. Similar to working indoors, cover the ground and surrounding areas with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to catch any paint overspray.
Remember to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself as well. Wear old clothing that you don't mind getting stained and consider using a respirator mask to avoid inhaling the paint fumes. Safety goggles will also shield your eyes from any paint particles or debris. Gloves are optional, but if you choose to wear them, make sure they fit well and provide a good grip.
By taking the time to choose the right work area and prepare your surroundings, you can ensure that your spray painting project goes smoothly and safely. Whether you decide to work in a well-ventilated indoor space or take advantage of the fresh air outdoors, always prioritise your health and safety while giving yourself enough room to work effectively.
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Shake the spray can and test the colour on cardboard or paper
Shaking the spray can is an important step in preparing to paint your RC car. Spray paint needs to be thoroughly mixed to achieve an even and opaque finish. Follow the directions on the can for how long to shake it, and consider holding the can under warm running water or placing it in a bowl of warm water to get it to around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the optimal temperature for spray paint to flow.
Once you've shaken the can, it's a good idea to test the colour on a piece of cardboard or paper. This will give you a sense of the colour's opacity and coverage, and it will also help you get a feel for the spray mechanism. Start by spraying away from the body of your vehicle, onto the cardboard or paper. Then, move towards the RC body and spray your first layer. Remember, your first layer should be a very light, thin coat—a fine, see-through misting. Let it dry, and then add another light coat. Repeat this process as many times as needed to build up the coverage you want. Three to four thin coats are better than one or two thick coats, as this will prevent the paint from chipping or flaking when dry.
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Spray in one direction, keeping a distance of 25-30 cm from the car body
When you're ready to start painting, it's important to maintain a distance of 25-30 cm from the car body. Hold the can at this distance and always spray in one direction, whether it be horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. This technique will ensure an even coat of paint.
Spraying in one direction is crucial to achieving a smooth and consistent finish. By moving the can in a single direction, you avoid creating uneven textures or brush marks on the surface. This simple step will give your RC car a sleek and professional look.
Additionally, maintaining the recommended distance of 25-30 cm is essential for two main reasons. Firstly, it allows you to control the amount of paint being applied, ensuring a light and thin coat. Applying too much paint in one go can lead to dripping, sags, or an uneven finish. Secondly, keeping a distance of 25-30 cm helps you achieve a consistent spray pattern. This distance is the optimal range for the paint to fan out and create a wide, even path.
Before you begin spraying, it's a good idea to test the spray on a piece of cardboard or paper. This way, you can get a feel for the pressure and flow of the paint, ensuring that you're applying the right amount. Remember to shake the can thoroughly before use, as this will help you achieve an opaque and even finish.
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Frequently asked questions
First, clean the body with warm, soapy water or a polycarbonate-body-cleaner to remove any grease and dirt. Then, dry it thoroughly. Next, use fine sandpaper or steel wool to lightly scuff the surface of the body. If you are using primer, you can apply it after this step. When you are ready to paint, shake the can well and test the colour on cardboard or paper. Hold the can about 25-30 centimetres away from the car body and spray in one direction. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
It depends on the type of paint you are using. If you are using TS spray paint, priming is not necessary. However, if you are using normal plastic paints, you will need to prime the surface. Some people recommend priming regardless of the paint type, as it can help the paint adhere better.
You should use a paint that is specifically designed for use on polycarbonate or Lexan, such as Tamiya or Pactra. Regular spray paint will crack and chip when the body flexes.
