Tips for Protecting Your RC Car Body

Choosing the Right Body

The first step in protecting your RC car body is choosing the right one. Consider the type of racing you’ll be doing and the terrain you’ll be driving on. A durable polycarbonate body is a good choice for most applications.

Prepping the Body

Once you’ve chosen the right body for your RC car, it’s important to prep it properly before you hit the track. This will help to protect it from damage and extend its lifespan. Here are a few tips⁚

• Clean the body⁚ Before you start prepping, make sure your body is clean. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. Once clean, allow the body to air dry completely.
• Sand the body⁚ Sanding the body with fine-grit sandpaper will help to create a smooth surface that’s easier to paint and less prone to scratches. Sand in the direction of the body’s curves and use gentle pressure to avoid thinning the plastic.
• Prime the body⁚ A primer will help to create a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to. Choose a primer that’s specifically designed for polycarbonate bodies. Apply a thin, even coat of primer to the entire body. Let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.
• Paint the body⁚ After priming, you can paint your body. Use a high-quality polycarbonate paint for best results. Apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Avoid applying too much paint in one coat, as this can lead to runs and drips.
• Clear coat the body⁚ Once the paint is dry, apply a clear coat to protect it from scratches, chips, and fading. Clear coats are available in gloss, matte, and satin finishes. Choose the finish that best suits your preference.

By following these prepping steps, you’ll ensure that your RC car body is ready to withstand the rigors of racing.

Protective Measures

Once your body is prepped and painted, it’s time to take some extra steps to protect it. Here are a few options to consider⁚

3.1. Body Armor

Body armor, also known as “body guards” or “bumpers,” provides additional protection for vulnerable areas of your RC car body. These are typically made of durable plastic or polycarbonate and come in various shapes and sizes to fit different car models. Here’s what you need to know about body armor⁚

• Types of Body Armor⁚ There are two main types of body armor⁚
• Front and Rear Bumpers⁚ These are the most common type and protect the front and rear of the car from impacts. They often feature built-in wings that help improve stability and reduce drag.
• Side Guards⁚ These protect the sides of the car, especially the wheel wells, from scratches and dents. They are particularly useful in tight corners and when driving on rough terrain.
• Installation⁚ Body armor is typically attached to the body using double-sided tape or screws. Some kits come with pre-drilled holes for easy installation.
• Benefits⁚ Body armor offers several advantages⁚
• Protects Against Impacts⁚ Body armor absorbs the force of impacts, preventing damage to the body and reducing wear and tear.
• Enhances Durability⁚ Body armor adds a layer of protection, making your car body more resistant to scratches, dents, and cracks.
• Improves Performance⁚ Some body armor designs can actually improve the car’s performance by enhancing stability, aerodynamics, or handling.
• Increases Resale Value⁚ A well-maintained RC car body with protective armor can command a higher resale value.
• Drawbacks⁚ While body armor offers many benefits, it does have a few drawbacks⁚
• Added Weight⁚ Body armor adds weight to the car, which can slightly affect its performance, especially acceleration and handling.
• Cost⁚ Body armor can be an added expense, especially if you purchase a high-quality set.
• Aesthetics⁚ Some body armor designs can be bulky or detract from the car’s aesthetics.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use body armor depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you race frequently or drive your car on rough terrain, body armor is a worthwhile investment. If you are primarily a casual driver, you may not need it. However, it’s always good to consider the benefits of body armor and weigh them against any potential drawbacks.

3.2. Body Tape

Body tape, also known as “protective tape” or “clear tape,” is a thin, transparent adhesive film that can be applied to the surface of your RC car body to protect it from scratches, dents, and other damage. It is a simple and effective way to extend the life of your body and keep it looking its best. Here’s what you need to know about body tape⁚

• Types of Body Tape⁚ There are two main types of body tape⁚
• Clear Tape⁚ This is the most common type and is typically made of a durable, transparent polyurethane film. It provides a clear barrier against scratches, dents, and dirt.
• Colored Tape⁚ This type of tape comes in various colors and can be used to add a decorative touch to your body. It can also be used to protect specific areas of the body, such as the wheel wells or the front bumper.
• Application⁚ Body tape is easy to apply and remove. Simply clean the surface of your body with a mild soap and water solution and let it dry completely. Then, carefully apply the tape, smoothing it out as you go. Make sure there are no air bubbles trapped under the tape. It’s best to apply the tape in small sections, working your way around the entire body.
• Benefits⁚ Body tape offers several advantages⁚
• Protects Against Scratches and Dents⁚ Body tape acts as a barrier against minor impacts, preventing scratches and dents from forming on the body.
• Reduces Wear and Tear⁚ By protecting the body from scratches and dents, body tape helps reduce wear and tear, extending the life of your body.
• Easy to Apply and Remove⁚ Body tape is easy to apply and remove, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to protect your body.
• Affordable⁚ Body tape is relatively inexpensive compared to other protective measures, such as body armor.
• Adds Durability⁚ Body tape can add a layer of durability to your body, making it more resistant to cracking and breaking.
• Drawbacks⁚ While body tape is a useful protective measure, it does have a few drawbacks⁚
• Can Be Difficult to Apply Without Bubbles⁚ It can be tricky to apply body tape without air bubbles forming underneath, especially on curved surfaces.
• May Peel Off Over Time⁚ Depending on the quality of the tape and the conditions it is exposed to, body tape may peel off over time, requiring reapplication.
• Not As Protective As Body Armor⁚ Body tape is not as protective as body armor against major impacts.

Overall, body tape is a good option for protecting your RC car body from minor scratches and dents. It is easy to apply, affordable, and effective. However, if you are looking for maximum protection against major impacts, you may want to consider using body armor.

Maintenance and Repair

Even with the best protection, your RC car body will eventually show signs of wear and tear. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help extend the life of your body and keep it looking its best. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining and repairing your RC car body⁚

• Cleaning⁚ Cleaning your body after every run is essential for removing dirt, dust, and debris that can scratch and damage the paint. Use a mild soap and water solution to wash the body. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the paint. Gently dry the body with a soft towel.
• Inspecting for Damage⁚ After cleaning, inspect the body for any signs of damage, such as scratches, dents, cracks, or broken parts. If you find any damage, address it promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your body remains structurally sound.
• Repairing Scratches and Dents⁚ Minor scratches and dents can often be repaired with a little effort. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the rough edges of the scratch or dent. If the damage is deep, you may need to use a plastic filler or a body putty to fill in the area. Once the filler is dry, sand it down smooth and paint over the repaired area.
• Replacing Broken Parts⁚ If the body is damaged beyond repair or has broken parts, you may need to replace it with a new one. Most RC car bodies are made of polycarbonate, which is a durable plastic that can be easily replaced. Be sure to choose a body that is compatible with your RC car model;
• Using Protective Measures⁚ As mentioned in previous sections, using body tape, body armor, or other protective measures can help prevent damage to your body in the first place. Regularly inspecting and maintaining these protective measures can also extend their lifespan and ensure they are providing adequate protection.
• Storing Your Body⁚ When not in use, store your body in a dry, cool place to prevent it from getting damaged. Avoid storing your body in direct sunlight or in areas where it could be exposed to extreme temperatures.

By following these maintenance and repair tips, you can ensure your RC car body stays in good condition for years to come. A well-maintained body will not only look great but also perform better, making your RC car runs more enjoyable.