Customizing RC Car Lexan Bodies

Choosing the Right Body

The first step to customizing your RC car is choosing the right body. Consider the type of racing you’ll be doing, your car’s size and weight, and your personal style. There are many different styles available, from realistic truck and car bodies to more abstract and futuristic designs.

Preparing the Body for Painting

Once you’ve chosen your Lexan body, it’s time to prepare it for painting. This involves cleaning, masking, and sanding to ensure a smooth and durable finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide⁚

1. Cleaning⁚ Start by thoroughly cleaning the body with soap and water to remove any dirt, grease, or fingerprints. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that could damage the Lexan.
2. Masking⁚ Use painter’s tape to mask off areas you don’t want to paint. This includes windows, headlights, taillights, and any other details. Ensure the tape is securely pressed down to prevent paint bleeding.
3. Sanding⁚ Sanding the body with fine-grit sandpaper (600-800 grit) is crucial for creating a smooth surface for paint adhesion. This step helps remove any imperfections, scratches, or mold lines. Sand in one direction to avoid creating swirls. Avoid sanding too aggressively, as it can weaken the Lexan.
4. Primer⁚ Applying a primer layer is essential for enhancing paint adhesion and providing a base for the top coat. Use a primer specifically designed for Lexan bodies. Apply thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Ensure you cover all areas of the body, including the inside.

Tips for Preparing the Body⁚

• Use a well-ventilated area⁚ Painting with Lexan requires using paints and primers that contain solvents. Ensure good ventilation to prevent harmful fumes.
• Protect your work area⁚ Cover your workspace with newspaper or a drop cloth to protect it from paint spills.
• Wear protective gear⁚ Always wear a respirator mask, gloves, and eye protection when working with paints and solvents.
• Let each layer dry completely⁚ Allow sufficient drying time between each coat to avoid paint lifting or peeling. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific drying times.

By carefully preparing the Lexan body, you’ll set the stage for a professional-looking paint job that will last.

Painting and Detailing

With the Lexan body prepped and ready, it’s time to unleash your creativity and add a splash of color. Painting an RC car body is a rewarding process that allows you to personalize your ride and stand out from the crowd. Here’s a breakdown of the painting process⁚

1. Choosing Paint⁚ Select a paint specifically designed for Lexan bodies. These paints are formulated to adhere well to the material and withstand the rigors of RC racing. You’ll find a wide variety of colors and finishes, including solid colors, metallics, and even pearlescent effects.
2. Applying Paint⁚ Use an airbrush or spray can for even and consistent coverage. Start with thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat, which can lead to paint runs or uneven coverage. For intricate details, you can use a small brush to hand-paint.
3. Masking and Layering⁚ Use painter’s tape to mask off areas you want to keep a different color or add details. This is especially useful for creating stripes, decals, or other patterns. You can even apply multiple colors in layers to create unique effects.
4. Clear Coat⁚ Once the base paint is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. A clear coat also adds durability, helping to prevent scratches and chips. Choose a clear coat specifically designed for Lexan bodies.
5. Detailing⁚ Use a detail brush or a fine-tipped marker to add finishing touches like headlights, taillights, grills, and other details. You can also use masking tape to create clean lines for stripes or other designs. For a more realistic look, consider using a wash to highlight shadows and create depth.

Tips for Painting⁚

• Work in a well-ventilated area⁚ Paints and primers for Lexan contain solvents, so ensure proper ventilation during painting.
• Shake the paint well⁚ Thoroughly shake the paint can or airbrush bottle to mix the pigments evenly. This will ensure consistent color throughout the body.
• Use a light touch⁚ Apply thin coats of paint to prevent runs or uneven coverage. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
• Clean your tools⁚ Clean your airbrush or spray can thoroughly after each use. This will prevent clogging and ensure smooth paint application next time.
• Practice makes perfect⁚ Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and colors. Practice on a spare piece of Lexan to get a feel for the paint and its properties.

With a little patience and practice, you can paint a professional-looking Lexan body that will turn heads on the track.

Adding Decals and Accessories

Decals and accessories are the finishing touches that truly personalize your RC car body and give it a unique look. They add realism, branding, or just a touch of flair that makes your car stand out on the track. Here’s a guide to adding decals and accessories⁚

1. Choosing Decals⁚ There are numerous options for RC car decals, ranging from sponsor logos and racing numbers to realistic details like headlights, taillights, and even intricate graphics. Consider the overall theme of your car and choose decals that complement the paint scheme.
2. Applying Decals⁚ Before applying decals, make sure the Lexan body is clean and dust-free. Use a decal solution or water to activate the adhesive and position the decal precisely. Gently smooth out any air bubbles using a squeegee or a credit card. Let the decals dry completely before applying a clear coat to protect them.
3. Adding Accessories⁚ Accessories can range from simple upgrades like window masks and tire inserts to more elaborate additions like spoilers, roll cages, and light bars. Choose accessories that enhance the look and performance of your car. When attaching accessories, ensure they are securely fastened and won’t come loose during racing.

Tips for Adding Decals and Accessories⁚

• Plan Ahead⁚ Before applying decals, visualize the overall design and placement. Use a pencil to lightly outline the areas where you want to place the decals for a more accurate application.
• Use a Decal Solution⁚ A decal solution helps activate the adhesive and makes it easier to position and reposition the decals without damaging them.
• Avoid Air Bubbles⁚ Gently smooth out air bubbles as you apply the decals. Use a squeegee or a credit card to push the air out from the center to the edges. If any small bubbles remain, you can use a pin to gently puncture them.
• Protect Decals⁚ Once the decals are dry, apply a clear coat to protect them from scratches, chips, and fading. This will help keep your decals looking fresh and vibrant for longer.
• Add a Personal Touch⁚ Consider adding your own custom decals or using paint to create unique designs. This can be a fun way to express your personality and make your car truly stand out.

With the right decals and accessories, you can transform your RC car body into a true work of art, showcasing your creativity and passion for the sport.

Finishing Touches and Protection

After meticulously painting, detailing, and adding decals, the final steps involve giving your customized RC car body that professional touch and ensuring its durability on the track. Here’s how to finish and protect your Lexan masterpiece⁚

1. Clear Coating⁚ A clear coat is essential for protecting your paint job and decals from scratches, chips, and fading. It creates a durable, glossy finish that enhances the overall appearance of your body. Apply multiple thin coats of clear coat for optimal protection and a smooth, even finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
2. Window Masking⁚ For a more realistic look, apply window masks to create the illusion of windows. These masks are typically made of thin vinyl and are available in various shapes and sizes to match different vehicle types. Apply the masks carefully, ensuring they are securely in place and won’t come loose during racing.
3. Tire Inserts⁚ Tire inserts add weight and stability to your RC car’s tires, improving traction and handling. They come in different densities and shapes, allowing you to fine-tune the performance of your car. Choose the right inserts based on the type of track you’ll be racing on and your desired driving style;

Tips for Finishing Touches and Protection⁚

• Use a High-Quality Clear Coat⁚ Investing in a quality clear coat will ensure long-lasting protection and a durable finish. Look for clear coats specifically designed for Lexan bodies.
• Apply Thin Coats⁚ Multiple thin coats of clear coat are better than one thick coat, as this prevents runs and drips. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
• Sanding Between Coats⁚ If you’re applying multiple coats of clear coat, lightly sand between coats with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth, even surface.
• Polish for a Shine⁚ After the clear coat is fully cured, you can polish your Lexan body to enhance the shine and create a professional finish. Use a dedicated Lexan polishing compound and a microfiber cloth.
• Protect Your Body⁚ When transporting your RC car or storing it, keep the Lexan body protected from scratches and damage. Use a body bag or a padded case for storage and transport.

By following these steps, you can create a customized RC car body that looks amazing and performs flawlessly on the track.