Isabella Flores
Cutting and painting an RC Lexan body can be a challenging but rewarding task. Preparation is key, and a thorough cleaning of the body with soap and water, followed by scuffing and wiping with a lint-free cloth, is essential to ensure the paint adheres properly. Painting the body on the inside is recommended, with light coats of paint to prevent runs and excessive buildup. Curved hobby scissors are ideal for cutting the body, and a tapered reamer or circle cutter is perfect for creating body mounting holes. With the right tools and patience, you can create a beautifully painted and cut RC Lexan body.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Painting Lexan RC bodies | Paint the inside of the body shell. Paint in several light coats to prevent excessive paint buildup. |
| Painting tools | Use rattle (spray) paint cans, liquid paint with an airbrush, or paintbrushes. |
| Paint types | Water-based, solvent-based, lacquer-based, or aerosol paint formulated for Lexan material. |
| Paint brands | Pactra, Spaz Stix, Faskolor by Parma, and Duratrax. |
| Paint preparation | Wash the body with soap and water, scuff the surface with sandpaper, and wipe with a lint-free cloth to remove any dust or debris. |
| Cutting Lexan bodies | Use curved hobby scissors, an exacto knife, or a dremel tool. |
| Cutting techniques | Rough cut the shape with scissors, then finish with a dremel. Use scribe lines as a guide when trimming. |
| Body mounting holes | Use a tapered or quality reamer to create the holes. Remove material gradually and test-fit the body as you go. |
| Wheel wells | Use a circle cutter or Olfa Compass Cutter for smooth, round wheel well holes. Score the wheel well with a hobby knife and simply bend it out. |
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What You'll Learn
- Painting the body: Paint the inside of the body shell, using the right type of paint
- Cleaning the body: Wash the body with soap and water to remove dirt, oil, and mould release chemicals
- Cutting the body: Use curved scissors or a knife to cut the body, following scribe lines
- Applying decals: Test the position of decals before applying them, use a hobby knife to cut around images
- Finishing touches: Remove masking tape, attach the body to the chassis, and let the paint dry
Painting the body: Paint the inside of the body shell, using the right type of paint
Painting the body of an RC car requires careful preparation and the right type of paint. The paint job constitutes 80% of the work that goes into the final results. It is important to use the right type of paint so that it adheres properly and doesn't flake off.
Firstly, it is essential to prepare the body shell for painting. The body shell should be cleaned with a sponge and dish soap to remove any body mold release chemicals, grease, oil, fingerprints, or residue. These chemicals are designed to release the body from its mold and will prevent paint from adhering. The shell should then be rinsed with plain water and dried thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Next, the paint can be applied. Paint the inside of the body shell, as Lexan RC bodies are painted from the inside. The shine and sheen that you see reflecting off a body come from the reflective nature of the Lexan itself. The type of paint used should be either water-based, solvent-based, or lacquer-based paint formulated specifically for Lexan material. Spray paint formulated for Lexan material can also be used, as well as a specialized dye that permanently colours the plastic. Popular brands that make RC car body paints include Pactra, Spaz Stix, Duratrax, and Faskolor by Parma.
When applying the paint, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. The paint should be shaken, mixed, or thinned as required. It is also important to avoid breathing the paint vapors, as they are harmful. The paint should be applied in several light coats to prevent runs and excessive paint buildup.
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Cleaning the body: Wash the body with soap and water to remove dirt, oil, and mould release chemicals
To clean the Lexan RC body, you'll want to use mild soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the Lexan surface. Instead, opt for liquid detergent or dish soap, a soft cloth or sponge, and, if necessary, a soft-bristled brush.
Before you begin, ensure you have a large enough space to lay out all your materials and that your work area is well-ventilated. This will make the cleaning process easier and more comfortable.
Now, mix a small amount of mild soap or detergent with warm water. Take your soft cloth or sponge and dip it into the soapy water. Gently scrub the Lexan body, ensuring you cover the entire surface. Pay extra attention to areas with dirt, oil, or mould release chemicals, as these will need to be thoroughly cleaned for the paint to adhere properly.
Once you've scrubbed the entire body, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Ensure that all soap residue is removed. Finally, dry the body with a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth. Make sure the cloth is completely dry before using it to wipe down the Lexan to avoid leaving streaks or water spots.
It's important to remember not to touch the Lexan body with your fingers after washing it, as the natural oils on your skin can transfer and affect the paint adhesion.
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Cutting the body: Use curved scissors or a knife to cut the body, following scribe lines
Cutting the body of an RC car requires precision and careful handling. Here are some detailed steps to achieve a clean cut:
Firstly, it is important to understand the role of scribe lines. Scribe lines are essentially guides that indicate where to cut. They are usually pre-marked on the body, providing a clear outline for trimming. These lines ensure that your cuts are accurate and straight, allowing the body to fit perfectly onto the RC car's frame.
When it comes to the cutting tools, curved scissors or knives are recommended. Curved hobby scissors, specifically designed for this purpose, can be purchased from hobby dealers or craft stores. These scissors provide a more natural and ergonomic cutting experience when navigating the curves and contours of the RC body. Alternatively, a hobby knife can be used for more intricate cuts and adjustments.
Before cutting, ensure that you are following the scribe lines accurately. It is recommended to trace the scribe lines with a fine-tipped marker or pen to make them more visible. This tracing step ensures that you don't accidentally cut outside the lines.
When cutting, take your time and try to stay as close to the scribe lines as possible. Go slowly and carefully to avoid any mistakes or jagged edges. If you're using scissors, make smooth and deliberate cuts, following the natural curves of the body. If you're using a knife, carefully guide the blade along the scribe lines, applying gentle pressure to achieve a clean cut.
After cutting, it is important to smoothen the edges. This can be done using a drum sander attached to a drill, as mentioned in some RC body modification forums. Sanding the edges will give them a clean, finished look and ensure that the body fits seamlessly onto the RC car.
By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you will be able to cut your RC body accurately and effectively. Remember to take your time and work carefully to achieve the best results.
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Applying decals: Test the position of decals before applying them, use a hobby knife to cut around images
When applying decals to your RC Lexan body, it's important to take your time and test the position of the decals before adhering them to the body. This is because, once applied, decals cannot be removed without being damaged.
First, clean the areas where you will be adding the decals with rubbing alcohol or a mild detergent, then let those areas dry completely. If your decals are not die-cut, use a hobby knife to carefully cut around each image. The decals are printed on clear mylar, so you won't have to cut exactly around the image. Test the position of the decals, then peel the backing off and centre the decal where you want it on the body. Use a credit card or similar tool to press it down smoothly and remove any air bubbles.
If you have air bubbles in the decals, puncture the centre of each bubble with a sharp pin and push the air out. If you have creases along the outer edges of a decal, especially when applied to curved surfaces, use a hobby knife to cut along the top of the crease and overlap the edges.
Once the decals are applied and any necessary adjustments have been made, let them dry completely before handling. To protect your decals from wear and tear, apply a clear coat over them once they have dried.
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Finishing touches: Remove masking tape, attach the body to the chassis, and let the paint dry
Now that you've painted your Lexan RC body, it's time to add some final touches. Here's a step-by-step guide to finishing your project:
Remove the masking tape
Use a hobby knife or trimming scissors to carefully remove any masking tape that you used to protect parts of the body from paint. Take your time and be gentle to avoid damaging the paint or decals. Cut away any excess tape around edges or tight corners to achieve a smooth, clean finish.
Attach the body to the chassis
Refer to the instructions provided with your RC car to securely attach the body to the chassis. Ensure that the body is firmly secured and won't come loose during use. You can use products like the Xtreme Racing Body Post/Tie Wrap Kit, which provides the necessary parts for a secure attachment.
Let the paint dry
Once the body is attached, let the paint dry completely. Avoid handling the RC car excessively or roughhousing with it before the paint is fully cured. This will prevent smudging or damage to your paint job. The drying time may vary depending on the type of paint used and environmental conditions. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying times and recommendations.
Additional tips
To enhance the durability of your paint job, consider applying cut pieces of fiberglass mesh drywall tape to the inside of the body after it has dried. Coat the tape with a suitable adhesive, such as E6000 or Shoe Goo glue. You can add several layers of tape before applying the glue. This technique will help protect the paint from chipping and provide additional strength to the body.
Remember, taking your time and paying attention to the details will result in a high-quality finish for your Lexan RC body. Enjoy your newly customised RC car!
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Frequently asked questions
You can use curved hobby scissors, a dremel tool, or an exacto knife.
You can use liquid paint, aerosol paint, or dye. Liquid paint can be water-based, solvent-based, or lacquer-based. Ensure the paint is compatible with Lexan material.
First, clean the inside of the body with soap and water to remove any dirt, oil, or mould release chemicals. Then, scuff the surface with sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Wipe the body with a lint-free cloth to remove any dust or debris. Paint the inside of the body with your chosen paint, allowing it to dry thoroughly.
To prevent paint chipping, apply a back coat of black paint followed by several layers of white paint. You can also apply pieces of fiberglass mesh drywall tape to the inside of the body after painting and seal it with glue.
