How to Make an RC Car Body from Scratch

Building an RC car body from scratch is a great way to personalize your car and make it stand out from the crowd. It’s also a fun and challenging project that can be completed in a few hours with the right materials and tools.

Materials

• 1/8″ balsa wood
• 1/16″ basswood
• 1/32″ plywood
• Cyanoacrylate glue (CA glue)
• Sandpaper
• Hobby knife
• Ruler
• Pencil

Tools

• Scroll saw
• Drill
• Sanders

Instructions

1. Design your body. The first step is to design your body. You can do this by sketching out a template on paper or using a computer-aided design (CAD) program. Be sure to consider the size of your RC car and the type of racing you will be doing.
2. Cut out the body. Once you have your design, you can cut out the body. Use a scroll saw to cut out the main shape of the body from 1/8″ balsa wood. Then, use a drill to drill holes for the wheels and other features.
3. Add details. Once the body is cut out, you can add details. Use 1/16″ basswood to create trim, spoilers, and other features. You can also use 1/32″ plywood to create a floor pan.
4. Sand the body. Once the details are added, you can sand the body to smooth out the surface. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the wood.
5. Paint the body. Once the body is sanded, you can paint it. Use a spray paint or a brush-on paint. Be sure to let the paint dry completely before handling the body.
6. Mount the body. Once the paint is dry, you can mount the body on your RC car. Use CA glue to secure the body to the chassis.

Tips

• Use sharp tools when cutting and sanding the wood.
• Be patient and take your time. A well-built body will last for many years.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials and techniques.
• Have fun!

Conclusion

Building an RC car body from scratch is a rewarding experience that can help you create a truly unique and personal RC car. With a little planning and effort, you can build a body that will turn heads and help you win races.