Painting Clear RC Car Bodies

Introduction

Painting clear RC car bodies is a great way to customize your car and make it stand out from the crowd. It can also be a fun and rewarding project, especially if you’re new to painting. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of painting clear RC car bodies, from choosing the right paint to applying the finishing touches.

Choosing the Right Paint

The first step in painting a clear RC car body is to choose the right paint. There are a few different types of paint that you can use, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are a few of the most popular types of paint for RC car bodies:

• Acrylic paint is a water-based paint that is easy to use and dries quickly. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it a good choice for beginners. However, acrylic paint can be less durable than other types of paint, so it may not be the best choice for cars that will be raced or used in rough conditions.
• Enamel paint is a solvent-based paint that is more durable than acrylic paint. It is also more resistant to chipping and fading, making it a good choice for cars that will be used in rough conditions. However, enamel paint can be more difficult to use than acrylic paint, and it takes longer to dry.
• Polycarbonate paint is a specialized type of paint that is designed for use on polycarbonate RC car bodies. Polycarbonate paint is very durable and resistant to chipping and fading. It is also easy to apply and dries quickly. However, polycarbonate paint can be more expensive than other types of paint.

Preparing the Body

Once you have chosen the right paint, you need to prepare the RC car body for painting. This involves cleaning the body and removing any dirt or debris. You should also sand the body to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.

To clean the body, use a mild soap and water solution. Be sure to rinse the body thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before sanding.

To sand the body, use a fine-grit sandpaper. Sand the body in circular motions, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Once the body is sanded, wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove any dust.

Applying the Paint

Once the body is prepared, you can begin applying the paint. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the type of paint you are using. Here are a few general tips for applying paint to an RC car body:

• Use thin coats of paint and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.
• Hold the spray can about 6-8 inches away from the body and spray in even strokes.
• Overlap your strokes to ensure that the entire body is covered.
• Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the body.

Finishing Touches

Once the paint has dried, you can add any finishing touches that you desire. This could include adding decals, clear coating the body, or adding other details to make your car unique. Here are a few ideas for finishing touches:

• Decals are a great way to add detail and personality to your RC car body. You can find decals for just about any design or theme, so you’re sure to find something that you like.
• Clear coating can help to protect the paint on your RC car body from chipping and fading. It can also give the body a glossy finish that makes it look even more realistic.
• Other details that you can add to your RC car body include headlights, taillights, mirrors, and antennas. These details can help to make your car look more realistic and complete.

Conclusion

Painting clear RC car bodies is a fun and rewarding project that can help you to customize your car and make it stand out from the crowd. By following the tips in this guide, you can achieve great results and create a car that you’ll be proud of.