Upgrading the Body of Redcat Racing RC Cars

Introduction

Upgrading the body of your Redcat Racing RC car is a great way to enhance its appearance, performance, and durability. A new body can give your car a fresh look, improve its aerodynamics, and protect it from damage.

Body Shell Options

When choosing a new body shell, you have two main options⁚ stock body shells and aftermarket body shells. Stock body shells are the original bodies that come with the car, while aftermarket body shells are manufactured by third-party companies.

2.1. Stock Body Shells

Redcat Racing offers a variety of stock body shells for their RC cars, each designed to fit specific models. These shells are usually made from durable polycarbonate plastic, which is resistant to scratches and impacts. Stock body shells are an excellent choice for drivers who want to maintain the original look of their car or who are on a budget. They are readily available from Redcat Racing and authorized dealers.

Here are some advantages of using stock body shells⁚

• Cost-effective⁚ Stock body shells are typically more affordable than aftermarket shells.
• Easy to find⁚ They are readily available from Redcat Racing and authorized dealers.
• Designed for specific models⁚ Stock body shells are designed to fit the specific dimensions and features of your Redcat Racing car, ensuring a perfect fit.
• Available in a range of colors and designs⁚ Redcat Racing offers a variety of stock body shell colors and designs, allowing you to personalize your car’s appearance.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider⁚

• Limited customization options⁚ Stock body shells offer limited customization options compared to aftermarket shells.
• May not offer the best performance⁚ While stock body shells are functional, they may not provide the same level of aerodynamic performance as aftermarket shells.
• May be less durable⁚ Some stock body shells may not be as durable as aftermarket shells, especially in demanding conditions.

2.2. Aftermarket Body Shells

Aftermarket body shells offer a wider range of options for customizing your Redcat Racing RC car. These shells are often made from high-quality materials like Lexan polycarbonate, which is known for its durability and flexibility. They are available in various styles, colors, and designs, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look for your car. Many aftermarket body shells are also designed with enhanced aerodynamic features, which can improve your car’s handling and speed.

Here are some key advantages of using aftermarket body shells⁚

• Enhanced customization⁚ Aftermarket body shells offer a vast array of colors, designs, and styles, allowing you to customize your car’s appearance and make it stand out from the crowd.
• Improved performance⁚ Many aftermarket body shells are designed with aerodynamic features that can improve your car’s handling and speed, especially on high-speed tracks.
• Increased durability⁚ Aftermarket body shells are often made from high-quality materials like Lexan polycarbonate, which is more durable and resistant to damage than stock shells.
• Unique designs⁚ Aftermarket body shells offer a variety of unique designs, including realistic replicas of real-world vehicles, fantasy creations, and custom designs.

However, there are also some considerations to keep in mind⁚

• Higher cost⁚ Aftermarket body shells are generally more expensive than stock body shells;
• Limited availability⁚ Some aftermarket body shells may not be readily available and require searching for specific models and designs.
• May require modifications⁚ Some aftermarket body shells may require minor modifications to fit your Redcat Racing car, such as trimming or drilling holes.

Painting and Detailing

After installing a new body shell, you can further enhance its appearance and personalize it by painting and detailing it. Painting your RC car body allows you to create a unique and eye-catching look, while detailing adds depth and realism. Here’s a step-by-step guide to painting and detailing your Redcat Racing RC car body⁚

1. Prepare the body shell⁚ Clean the body shell thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris. Allow it to dry completely. Mask off any areas you don’t want to paint, such as windows or lights. Sand the body shell lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.
2. Prime the body shell⁚ Apply a primer to the body shell to create a uniform base for the paint. A primer helps the paint adhere better and provides a smoother finish. Let the primer dry completely before proceeding.
3. Paint the body shell⁚ Use an airbrush or spray paint to apply the paint to the body shell. Apply multiple thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This technique helps create a smooth and even finish.
4. Add details⁚ Once the paint is dry, you can add details to your body shell using various techniques. You can use masking tape to create stripes or patterns, or you can use decals to add logos or other designs. You can also use a fine-tipped paintbrush to hand-paint details or create custom artwork.
5. Apply a clear coat⁚ After detailing is complete, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and add a glossy or matte finish. A clear coat helps prevent scratches and fading and enhances the overall appearance of your RC car body.

Remember to choose paint and detailing supplies that are specifically designed for polycarbonate plastic. This ensures that the paint will adhere properly and provide a durable finish.

Body Mounts and Hardware

Securing your new body shell to your Redcat Racing RC car requires proper body mounts and hardware. These components ensure a secure fit, prevent the body from moving or rattling, and contribute to the overall stability and performance of your car. Here’s a breakdown of body mounts and hardware⁚

• Body Posts⁚ These are the vertical posts that attach to the chassis of your RC car and hold the body shell in place. They are typically made of durable plastic or metal and come in various lengths to accommodate different body shells. Ensure you choose body posts that are compatible with your car’s chassis and the new body shell you’ve installed.
• Body Clips⁚ These are the clips that secure the body shell to the body posts. They are designed to provide a snug fit while allowing for easy removal and installation of the body shell. Body clips come in various sizes and shapes, so make sure you choose the correct ones for your car and body shell.
• Body Mount Screws⁚ These are the screws that attach the body posts to the chassis. They are typically made of high-quality metal and are designed to withstand the stresses of off-road driving. Ensure you use the correct size and type of screws for your car and body posts.
• Body Mount Nuts⁚ These are the nuts that secure the body mount screws to the body posts. They are typically made of metal and are designed to provide a secure fit. Ensure you use the correct size and type of nuts for your car and body posts.

It’s essential to use high-quality body mounts and hardware to ensure a secure and durable attachment of your body shell. This will prevent the body from detaching during rough driving conditions and contribute to the overall performance of your Redcat Racing RC car.

Conclusion

Upgrading the body of your Redcat Racing RC car is an excellent way to personalize your vehicle, enhance its performance, and protect it from damage. By carefully selecting a new body shell, choosing the appropriate paint and detailing techniques, and ensuring proper body mounts and hardware, you can transform your RC car into a unique and powerful machine. Whether you’re looking for improved aerodynamics, a more aggressive look, or simply a fresh coat of paint, upgrading the body of your Redcat Racing RC car is a rewarding endeavor that will elevate your driving experience.

Remember to choose a body shell that complements your driving style and the terrain you frequent. Experiment with different paint and detailing techniques to create a unique look that reflects your personality. And always ensure that your body mounts and hardware are secure and in good condition to prevent any issues during your adventures on the track or off-road. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can transform your Redcat Racing RC car into a true head-turner that performs as well as it looks.