How to paint a hard rc car body
Turning Your RC Car into a Work of Art: A Guide to Painting Hard RC Car Bodies
The adrenaline rush of racing your RC car is exhilarating, but there’s a whole other level of satisfaction that comes with seeing your creation on the track, a unique masterpiece that reflects your own personality. A painted RC car body isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about expressing your individuality and taking your hobby to the next level. But where do you start? What are the essential tools and techniques? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from prepping your body to adding the finishing touches, transforming your RC car from a blank canvas into a vibrant, head-turning racer.
Before diving into the exciting world of painting, it’s important to understand that the process requires a combination of patience, meticulousness, and a touch of artistic flair. Don’t be intimidated; even if you haven’t held a paintbrush in years, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to create stunning results. Let’s begin our journey by first understanding the different types of RC car bodies.
The Body of the Matter: Understanding RC Car Body Types
RC car bodies come in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right type of body can significantly impact the painting process and the overall durability of your masterpiece. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common body types:
1. Lexan (Polycarbonate)
Lexan, also known as polycarbonate, is the most popular material for RC car bodies. Its lightweight and shatter-resistant properties make it ideal for high-speed racing and off-road adventures. Lexan is relatively easy to paint and highly durable, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced painters alike. However, it can scratch easily, so proper handling is crucial.
2. ABS Plastic
ABS plastic is another common material used for RC car bodies. It’s known for its strength and durability, making it a popular choice for off-road vehicles and hard-core bashing. ABS plastic can be painted, but it requires special primers and paints designed for this type of material. The paint adherence can be a little trickier compared to Lexan.
3. Fiberglass
Fiberglass bodies are often found on high-end RC cars. They offer a significant weight advantage over Lexan and ABS plastic, but they are also more brittle and require more careful handling. Fiberglass is typically painted with automotive-grade paints, which can be challenging for beginners due to the specialized techniques required.
Prepping for Success: Getting Your Body Ready for Paint
Just like a professional artist prepares their canvas before starting a masterpiece, you need to properly prepare your RC car body before applying paint. This essential step ensures that your paint adheres properly and provides a smooth, professional finish.
1. Cleaning Up
Start by giving your body a thorough cleaning. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. For stubborn stains, you can use a mild cleaner like rubbing alcohol, but be careful not to use anything too harsh that might damage the surface.
2. Masking
Masking is essential to protect areas of the body that you don’t want to paint. Use painter’s tape (low-tack is preferred) to mask off any sections, windows, or other details. Be sure to apply the tape smoothly and evenly to avoid paint bleeding. You can also use masking fluid for more intricate details.
3. Sanding
Sanding is a crucial step for achieving a smooth and even finish. Use a fine-grit sandpaper (400-600 grit) to smooth out any imperfections, scratches, or mold lines. Sand in one direction to avoid leaving swirl marks. Be sure to dust off the body thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Painting Your Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now comes the exciting part: unleashing your artistic vision on your RC car body. The techniques and materials may vary based on the type of paint you choose, but the general steps will remain the same. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Primer: The Foundation of Your Painting
Just like the first layer of paint on a house, primer provides a smooth, even surface for the topcoat to adhere to. There are various types of primers available for RC car bodies, including:
- Lexan Primer: Specifically designed for polycarbonate bodies. It provides excellent adhesion and helps prevent paint from peeling.
- ABS Primer: Formulated for ABS plastic, ensuring proper paint bonding on this type of body.
- Universal Primer: Can be used on both Lexan and ABS plastic bodies, offering a versatile option.
Apply a thin, even coat of primer to the entire body using a spray can or airbrush. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
2. Base Coat: The Canvas for Your Design
The base coat is the foundation for your design. It determines the overall color of your car body. You can choose from a vast range of colors, from classic black and white to vibrant neon shades. Here are some popular options for base coats:
- Acrylic Paints: User-friendly and available in a wide range of colors. They dry quickly and are easy to work with.
- Polycarbonate Paints: Designed specifically for Lexan bodies. Offer excellent adhesion and durability.
- Automotive Paints: Provide a high-gloss, durable finish, but they require specialized equipment and techniques.
Apply a thin, even coat of base coat to the entire body, ensuring the primer is fully covered. Allow the base coat to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
3. Fine Tuning: Adding Details and Decals
Now comes the fun part: adding those special details that will make your car truly unique. There are many ways to achieve this, including:
- Masking and Paint: Create intricate designs by masking off sections of the body and painting specific areas. Use painter’s tape, masking fluid, or even stencils for precise results.
- Airbrushing: If you’re looking for a professional-looking finish, airbrushing allows you to create smooth gradients, transitions, and intricate details.
- Decals: Pre-printed decals are a quick and easy way to add logos, numbers, and sponsor names to your car body. Be sure to choose decals designed for Lexan or ABS plastic to ensure they adhere properly.
Take your time and be creative! Use masking techniques, airbrushing, decals, or a combination of all three to personalize your car body.
4. Clear Coat: Protecting Your Work of Art
The clear coat is the final layer that seals in your paint job, providing a durable and glossy finish. Just like a coat of wax on a car, the clear coat protects the paint from scratches, chips, and UV damage.
- Lexan Clear Coat: Specifically designed for polycarbonate bodies. Offers excellent durability and protection.
- ABS Clear Coat: Formulated for ABS plastic bodies, ensuring a strong and long-lasting finish.
- Universal Clear Coat: Can be used on both Lexan and ABS plastic bodies, providing a versatile option.
Apply a thin, even coat of clear coat to the entire body, ensuring the decals and paint are fully covered. Allow the clear coat to dry completely before moving on to the final step.
5. Finishing Touches: The Grand Finale
With your car body painted and clear coated, it’s time to add the finishing touches. These small details can elevate your paint job and make your car stand out from the crowd.
- Window Masking: If you haven’t already, mask off the windows and paint them with a black or dark gray paint. This adds a realistic touch and helps to define the body’s shape.
- Detailing: Use a fine-tipped paint pen or a small brush to add additional details like headlights, taillights, or even intricate patterns.
- Decal Protection: If you’ve used decals, consider applying a layer of clear coat over them to protect them from damage.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Techniques and Tips
If you’re ready to take your painting skills to the next level, explore these advanced techniques and tips:
