Customizing RC Car Body Shells for 1/16 Scale Models

Choosing the Right Shell

The first step in customizing your RC car body is selecting the perfect shell. Consider the style and performance of your car, as well as your personal preferences. Look for shells made from durable materials like polycarbonate, which can withstand bumps and crashes.

Preparing the Shell for Customization

Once you’ve chosen your shell, it’s time to get it ready for customization. This involves a few essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful paint job⁚

Cleaning and Degreasing⁚

Before you start painting, it’s crucial to clean the shell thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or residue that could interfere with the paint’s adhesion. Start by washing the shell with mild dish soap and warm water, making sure to scrub any areas that might have fingerprints or grease. Rinse it thoroughly with clean water and let it air dry completely.

After drying, use a degreaser specifically designed for plastics. Apply it to the entire shell, paying extra attention to areas where your hands have touched it. Wipe the degreaser off with a clean, lint-free cloth, ensuring no residue remains. This step is vital for achieving a long-lasting and durable paint finish.

Masking and Protection⁚

If you plan to use multiple colors or create intricate designs, you’ll need to mask off certain areas of the shell to protect them from paint. Use masking tape that’s specifically designed for plastics, as regular masking tape can leave behind sticky residue. Apply the tape carefully, ensuring it adheres tightly to the shell without any gaps or wrinkles.

Consider using painter’s tape to protect areas like the windows, lights, and other details that you don’t want to paint. You can also use masking film to cover larger areas, such as the roof or the sides of the shell. This helps prevent paint from getting into areas where it shouldn’t be.

Sanding and Priming⁚

While not always necessary, sanding can help create a smoother surface for the paint to adhere to, especially if you’re dealing with a new shell that has a slightly rough texture. Use fine-grit sandpaper (400-600 grit) to lightly sand the entire shell, being careful not to press too hard. This step helps create a more even and consistent surface for painting.

After sanding, you can apply a primer specifically formulated for plastics. This step helps create a barrier between the shell and the paint, promoting better adhesion and a more durable finish. The primer also helps to even out the surface, allowing for a smoother and more professional paint job.

Preparing for Painting⁚

Before you start painting, make sure you have a well-ventilated area with adequate lighting. Choose a paint specifically designed for plastics, as regular paints may not adhere properly. You can choose from various paint types, including acrylic, enamel, and polycarbonate-specific paints, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Once your paint is chosen, shake it well to ensure the pigments are evenly distributed. Consider using a primer specifically designed for plastics before applying your main paint colors. This step helps to create a smoother surface and allows the paint to adhere more effectively.

Painting and Detailing

With your shell prepped and ready, it’s time to unleash your creativity and bring your vision to life with paint. Painting your RC car body shell is a fun and rewarding process, but it requires patience and attention to detail.

Applying the Base Coat⁚

Start by applying a thin, even coat of your base color to the entire shell. This provides a smooth, consistent foundation for any subsequent layers. Use a spray can or airbrush for the best results. Hold the can or airbrush a few inches from the shell and move it slowly and evenly; Avoid overspraying, and allow the paint to dry completely before applying additional coats.

Adding Accent Colors and Designs⁚

Once the base coat is dry, you can begin adding accent colors and designs. Use masking tape to define areas where you want to apply different colors. You can also use stencils to create geometric patterns or logos. Apply the accent colors in thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Detailing and Finishing⁚

Once the base and accent colors are applied, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Use a fine-tip paintbrush to create details like headlights, taillights, and stripes. You can also use a small brush to apply decals or to paint on custom graphics.

After detailing, you can apply a clear coat to protect your paint job and enhance its shine. Use a clear coat specifically designed for plastics, and apply it in thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Considerations for a Professional Look⁚

For a truly professional look, consider using an airbrush. Airbrushing allows for precise control over the paint application, resulting in smooth, even transitions between colors. If you’re new to airbrushing, it’s best to practice on a scrap piece of plastic before applying paint to your shell.

Another option is to use pre-cut decals or stickers. These decals can add detail and complexity to your paint job without requiring any artistic skill. Simply choose the decals you want, apply them to your shell, and then seal them with a clear coat.

Adding Decals and Accessories

Decals and accessories can transform your RC car body from a simple shell into a unique and eye-catching masterpiece. These elements add personality, detail, and a touch of realism, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your custom creation.

Decals⁚

Decals are a great way to add logos, numbers, and other graphics to your RC car body. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, allowing you to personalize your car with your favorite team, driver, or sponsor. There are two main types of decals⁚ water-slide decals and adhesive-backed decals.

Water-slide decals are applied by soaking them in water, then sliding them onto the surface of your shell. They offer a smooth, seamless finish and are often preferred by experienced modelers. Adhesive-backed decals are simpler to apply, simply peel and stick, but they can be more prone to lifting or peeling over time.

Accessories⁚

Accessories can further enhance the realism and visual impact of your RC car body. Consider adding items like⁚

• Spoilers⁚ Spoilers not only add a sporty aesthetic, but they can also improve the car’s aerodynamics and stability at high speeds. Select a spoiler that complements the design of your shell and the overall style of your car.
• Wheels and Tires⁚ New wheels and tires can completely transform the look of your RC car. Choose options that match the style and performance of your car. For example, consider off-road tires for a rugged look or racing slicks for a sporty aesthetic.
• Mirrors⁚ Mirrors are a small but important detail that can add a touch of realism to your RC car body. Look for mirrors that are specifically designed for RC cars and that are durable enough to withstand the rigors of racing.
• Lights⁚ LED lights can be added to your RC car body to create a more realistic and eye-catching effect. You can find a variety of LED lights that are designed for RC cars, including headlights, taillights, and even interior lights.
• Window Masks⁚ Window masks can add a touch of realism to your RC car body by simulating the look of tinted windows. They are available in a variety of colors and shades, allowing you to customize the look of your car to your liking.

When adding decals and accessories, it’s important to ensure they are securely attached and will withstand the stresses of racing. Use a high-quality adhesive and consider applying a clear coat over the decals and accessories to protect them from damage.

Final Touches and Assembly

With your customized RC car body shell complete, it’s time to add the final touches and assemble it onto your chassis. This step brings your creation to life and ensures it’s ready for the track.

Clear Coating⁚

Applying a clear coat to your shell is essential for protection and durability. It safeguards your paint job, decals, and accessories from scratches, chips, and UV damage. Choose a high-quality, durable clear coat specifically designed for polycarbonate bodies. Allow the clear coat to fully cure before proceeding to assembly.

Pre-Drilling⁚

Before attaching your body shell to the chassis, pre-drill holes for the body posts. This prevents cracking or splitting of the shell during assembly. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of your body post screws. Be sure to drill the holes in the correct locations as indicated by your chassis manual.

Assembly⁚

With the final touches complete, it’s time to assemble your custom body shell onto the chassis. Follow these steps⁚

• Align the Body Shell⁚ Carefully place the body shell onto the chassis, ensuring it’s centered and aligned. Check the alignment from different angles to ensure it sits flush and straight.
• Secure the Body Posts⁚ Insert the body posts through the pre-drilled holes in the shell and chassis. Secure them with the provided screws, tightening them evenly to avoid warping the shell.
• Adjust Body Mount⁚ Most RC car chassis allow for adjustment of the body mount height and angle. Fine-tune these settings to achieve the desired ride height and overall aesthetics.
• Final Inspection⁚ Once the body shell is secured, give your custom creation a final inspection. Ensure all decals and accessories are securely attached and that the shell is properly aligned.

With your customized RC car body shell assembled, you’re ready to take your creation to the track and show off your unique style. Remember to handle your custom shell with care, and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your hard work come to life on the racecourse.