Choosing the Right Body
The body is the most visible part of your RC drift car, so choosing the right one is crucial. Consider the style you want (sports car, truck, etc.), the fitment for your chassis, and the material (polycarbonate is common). Research popular brands like HPI, Tamiya, and JConcepts for high-quality options.
Preparing the Body for Customization
Before you start painting and adding details, you need to prepare the body for customization. This involves a few key steps that will ensure a smooth and professional finish⁚
- Cleaning⁚ Start by thoroughly cleaning the body to remove any dirt, grease, or mold release agent that may be present. Use soap and water or a dedicated plastic cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the polycarbonate.
- Trimming⁚ Most bodies come with excess material that needs to be trimmed. Use a sharp hobby knife or a body trimmer to carefully cut away any excess plastic around the wheel wells, windows, and other areas. Take your time and make sure to cut along the lines marked on the body. Be careful not to cut into the body’s structural supports.
- Drilling Holes⁚ You’ll need to drill holes for the body posts, antenna, and any other accessories you plan to mount. Use a drill press or a hand drill with a drill bit sized appropriately for the body posts and other parts. Be sure to use a drill guide to ensure the holes are perfectly aligned.
- Masking⁚ If you want to create a multi-color design or protect certain areas from paint, masking tape is essential. Apply masking tape carefully to the areas you want to protect, ensuring that the edges are smooth and secure. Use a sharp hobby knife to cut intricate shapes if needed.
- Sanding⁚ Sanding the body before painting can help create a smoother surface and improve paint adhesion. Use fine-grit sandpaper (600-800 grit) to lightly sand the entire body, focusing on areas that have rough edges or imperfections. Be sure to sand in one direction to avoid creating swirl marks.
By taking the time to prepare the body properly, you’ll set yourself up for success when it comes to painting, detailing, and adding accessories.
Painting and Detailing
Painting your RC drift car body is a fun and creative way to express your style and individuality. There are several different paint options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of the most common choices⁚
- Spray Paint⁚ Spray paint is a popular choice for beginners due to its ease of use and affordability. It comes in a wide range of colors and finishes, including gloss, matte, and metallic. However, spray paint can be difficult to control, and achieving a perfectly smooth finish requires practice.
- Acrylic Paint⁚ Acrylic paint is a water-based paint that dries quickly and is easy to clean up. It’s ideal for details, decals, and creating custom designs. However, acrylic paint can be prone to chipping if not properly sealed.
- Lexan Paint⁚ Lexan paint is specifically designed for polycarbonate bodies. It offers excellent adhesion, durability, and resistance to fading. It’s available in a variety of colors, including fluorescent and pearlescent options.
Once you’ve chosen your paint, it’s time to start painting. It’s essential to use a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator mask to protect yourself from fumes. Apply thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Once the paint is dry, you can add details like stripes, decals, and custom graphics using masking tape, stencils, or freehand techniques. Remember to seal the paint with a clear coat to protect it from scratches and UV damage.
Detailing your RC drift car body is the finishing touch that can make it truly stand out. You can add decals, stickers, custom graphics, or even paint custom details by hand. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild!
Adding Accessories and Modifications
After you’ve painted and detailed your RC drift car body, you can start adding accessories and modifications to enhance its performance and appearance. These additions can range from simple upgrades to more complex modifications, depending on your budget and desired level of customization.
Here are some popular accessories and modifications⁚
- Wings and Spoilers⁚ Wings and spoilers provide downforce, which improves stability and traction at high speeds. They come in various shapes and sizes, each offering different levels of downforce. Experiment with different wings and spoilers to find the best balance for your car and driving style.
- Bumpers⁚ Bumpers protect your car from impacts and can also add a unique aesthetic touch. They come in various materials, including polycarbonate, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. Choose bumpers that match your car’s style and provide adequate protection.
- Mirrors⁚ Mirrors are essential for visibility and can also enhance the car’s realism. They come in various styles and can be attached to the body using adhesive or mounting screws.
- Lights⁚ Adding LED lights to your RC drift car can enhance its visual appeal and improve nighttime visibility. You can find LED kits for headlights, taillights, and even interior lighting.
In addition to accessories, you can also modify your body to improve its performance. This might involve adding or removing body panels, adjusting the wheelbase, or making changes to the chassis. Consult with experienced drifters or research online resources for guidance on these more advanced modifications.
Final Touches and Assembly
Once you’ve added all the accessories and modifications to your RC drift car body, it’s time to put the finishing touches on your creation and assemble it onto the chassis. This final stage involves ensuring everything is secure, aesthetically pleasing, and ready for action.
Here are some essential steps to consider⁚
- Clean Up⁚ Before assembling the body, take some time to clean any dust, paint overspray, or adhesive residue from the body and accessories. This will ensure a smooth and professional finish.
- Secure Attachments⁚ Double-check that all accessories, wings, bumpers, and mirrors are securely attached to the body using the appropriate adhesives, screws, or mounting methods. Ensure they’re properly aligned and won’t interfere with the car’s movement.
- Install Body Posts⁚ Body posts are crucial for attaching the body to the chassis. Ensure they are properly aligned and securely fastened to the body and chassis. You may need to adjust the length of the body posts to achieve the desired ride height and clearance.
- Final Adjustments⁚ Once the body is mounted to the chassis, take a moment to make any final adjustments. This might involve adjusting the body’s angle, making sure the wheels are clear of the fenders, or fine-tuning the ride height.
- Inspect and Test⁚ Before hitting the track, give your customized RC drift car a thorough inspection. Check that all components are secure, the body is properly aligned, and the car is ready for action. Take it for a test drive on a safe surface to ensure everything is working as intended.
With your RC drift car body fully customized and assembled, you’re now ready to hit the track and enjoy your unique and personalized creation. Remember to practice and refine your driving skills to maximize the performance of your customized car.