Ever seen an RC car whizzing by, a blur of vibrant color and cool designs? Did you wonder how those awesome paint jobs are done? Painting your RC car body is a great way to make it stand out and show off your personal style! But choosing the right paint can be tricky. There are so many choices, and getting it wrong can lead to a messy disaster. Nobody wants their hard work to peel or crack after just a few runs!
Choosing the best paint for your RC car body is important. You need paint that sticks, lasts, and looks amazing. It’s easy to feel lost with all the different types of paint, like spray cans, and the different kinds of plastic your RC car body might be made of. Plus, you want a paint that can handle bumps, scrapes, and the sun’s harsh rays!
In this post, we’ll make it easy! You’ll learn about the best paints for RC car bodies. We’ll cover the different types, how to choose the right one for your project, and how to get a professional-looking finish. Get ready to transform your RC car from plain to spectacular! Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to a perfect paint job!
Our Top 5 Paint For Rc Car Bodies Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Tamiya 86001 Paint Spray | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Tamiya 86016 Paint Spray | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Tamiya Spray Lacquer TS-14 Black | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Tamiya 86018 PS-18 Metallic Purple Spray Paint | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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FLA1052P Flames Vinyl Paint Mask/Stencil Kit for R/C | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Paint For Rc Car Bodies Detailed Reviews
1. Tamiya 86001 Paint Spray
Rating: 8.7/10
The Tamiya 86001 Paint Spray in White is a specialized paint made in Japan. It is designed specifically for polycarbonate materials. This means it’s perfect for painting RC car bodies and other items made of this tough plastic. Remember, this paint is not for plastic model kits! The package is small, making it easy to store. It measures 2.0 inches long, 2.0 inches wide, and 4.25 inches high.
What We Like:
- Made in Japan, ensuring quality.
- Designed for polycarbonate, making it ideal for RC car bodies.
- Provides a bright white finish.
- The spray is easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- It can only be used on polycarbonate.
- You can’t use it on plastic model kits.
This Tamiya paint spray is a solid choice if you need to paint polycarbonate. It is easy to use and gives a nice, white finish. Be sure you understand what surfaces you can use it on before you start painting!
2. Tamiya 86016 Paint Spray
Rating: 9.0/10
The Tamiya 86016 Paint Spray, Metallic Blue is a great way to give your RC car a cool new look. This spray paint is a beautiful metallic blue color. It is made for polycarbonate RC car bodies. You can also use it on gas-powered RC car bodies. This paint is a fun way to customize your RC cars!
What We Like:
- The paint is a vibrant metallic blue.
- It works well on polycarbonate bodies.
- You can use it on gas-powered RC bodies.
- Tamiya is a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The can size may be small for large projects.
- You need to prep the surface before painting.
This Tamiya paint spray is a solid choice for RC car enthusiasts. It is a good way to add some style to your RC car collection.
3. Tamiya Spray Lacquer TS-14 Black
Rating: 9.1/10
Tamiya Spray Lacquer TS-14 Black is a popular paint for hobbyists. It is made by Tamiya, a well-known model company. This paint is perfect for plastic models and other craft projects. It gives a smooth, even black finish. This spray paint is easy to use and dries quickly. It’s a great choice for beginners and experienced modelers.
What We Like:
- Provides a smooth, glossy black finish.
- Dries quickly, saving you time.
- Easy to apply with a spray can.
- Ideal for plastic models and other crafts.
- Offers good coverage with minimal coats.
What Could Be Improved:
- N/A
Tamiya Spray Lacquer TS-14 Black is a solid choice for your painting needs. You will enjoy the results. It’s a must-have for any modeler.
4. Tamiya 86018 PS-18 Metallic Purple Spray Paint
Rating: 8.9/10
Looking to give your model a stunning, vibrant finish? The Tamiya 86018 PS-18 Metallic Purple Spray Paint is a great choice for hobbyists. This spray paint is made for polycarbonate bodies. It is perfect for RC car models and other projects. Tamiya is known for its high-quality hobby paints. You can use this paint with Tamiya’s other parts and accessories. The package dimensions are 2.0″ long, 2.0″ wide, and 4.13″ high. Get ready to make your models shine with this beautiful metallic purple color.
What We Like:
- High-quality paint provides a beautiful finish.
- Easy to use for hobbyists of all levels.
- Designed for use on polycarbonate bodies.
- Part of the trusted Tamiya brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited to use on polycarbonate bodies.
- May require multiple coats for best results.
Overall, this Tamiya spray paint is a solid choice for model enthusiasts. If you want a professional-looking finish on your polycarbonate models, you should consider this paint.
5. FLA1052P Flames Vinyl Paint Mask/Stencil Kit for R/C
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to customize your R/C vehicle with the FLA1052P Flames Vinyl Paint Mask/Stencil Kit! This kit lets you easily add cool flame designs to your RC car body. It uses Type “P” masking material, which is popular for RC bodies. The 3mil thick, ice blue matte finish vinyl is flexible. This helps the mask stick to curved surfaces for a clean paint job. The kit includes a cut graphic design mask and transfer tape, plus instructions. This product is proudly made in the USA!
What We Like:
- Flexible material for easy application on curved surfaces.
- Comes with transfer tape and instructions.
- Made in the USA.
- Ice Blue matte finish is perfect for polycarbonate paints.
- Combined shipping is available to save you money.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a one-time use mask.
- You need to weed the excess vinyl, which takes time.
- You must clean the surface before applying the mask.
Overall, the FLA1052P Flames Vinyl Paint Mask is a fun way to customize your RC car. It is an easy way to give your RC car a unique look!
Paint Your RC Car: A Guide to Awesome Paint Jobs!
So, you want to make your RC car look amazing? Painting the body is a great way to do it! This guide will help you pick the best paint for your RC car.
Key Features to Look For
You need paint that will stick to your car. Here are the important features:
- Specialized for RC Bodies: Look for paints made specifically for RC car bodies. These paints are designed to flex. This helps them resist cracking when your car crashes or bumps around.
- Durability: The paint needs to last! Look for paints that are scratch-resistant and can handle the wear and tear of racing or bashing.
- Color Options: Do you like bright colors? Maybe you want a cool design? Good paint comes in many colors and types. Some paints even change color in the sun!
- Easy Application: The paint should be easy to spray or brush on. You don’t want a paint that clogs easily.
- Fast Drying: Nobody wants to wait forever! Choose a paint that dries quickly so you can get back to racing.
Important Materials You’ll Need
Besides the paint, you’ll need some other things.
- RC Body: This is the plastic shell of your car. Make sure the paint is safe to use on the type of plastic your body is made from.
- Paint: Obviously! Choose a paint specifically designed for RC car bodies.
- Primer (Optional): Primer helps the paint stick better. It’s like a base coat.
- Masking Tape: Use this to create clean lines and designs.
- Scissors or a Hobby Knife: For cutting the masking tape.
- Spray Booth (Recommended): A spray booth helps control the paint and fumes.
- Cleaning Supplies: You need to clean the body before painting. Use soapy water or a special plastic cleaner.
- Spray Gun or Brush: You can spray the paint using a spray gun or brush it on. Spray guns give the best results.
- Gloves and a Mask: Protect yourself! Paint fumes can be harmful.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make paint good or bad.
- Paint Type: Acrylic lacquers and polycarbonate paints are common. Polycarbonate paints are great for RC cars. They’re flexible.
- Application Method: Spraying paint usually gives a smoother, better finish. Brushing can work, but it’s harder to get a perfect look.
- Preparation: Cleaning and prepping the body really matters. If you don’t clean it, the paint won’t stick. Use soapy water and a good cleaner.
- Thin Coats: Apply thin coats of paint. This prevents drips and runs. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick one.
- Drying Time: Follow the drying instructions on the paint can. Don’t rush it!
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for quality. Do some research. Read reviews before you buy.
- Environment: Paint in a well-ventilated area. The temperature and humidity can affect the paint’s performance.
User Experience and Use Cases
People paint their RC cars for fun. They also do it to make them look cool.
- Racing: Racers often paint their cars with bright colors. This helps them see their cars on the track.
- Bashing: Bashers (people who drive their cars on rough terrain) paint their cars too. It’s a way to customize them.
- Custom Designs: Some people create amazing custom designs. They use multiple colors and stencils.
- Repairing Damage: If your car’s paint gets scratched, you can repaint it. This makes it look new again.
- Beginner Projects: Painting RC cars is a fun hobby. It’s also a great way to learn about painting and model building.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What kind of paint should I use?
A: Use paint designed for RC car bodies. These paints are flexible.
Q: Do I need to sand the body?
A: Usually, you don’t need to sand the body. Just clean it well.
Q: How many coats of paint should I apply?
A: Apply several thin coats. This helps prevent drips.
Q: How do I prepare the body for painting?
A: Clean the body with soapy water and a plastic cleaner. Make sure it’s completely dry.
Q: Can I use regular spray paint?
A: No. Regular spray paint isn’t flexible. It will crack.
Q: What is a spray booth?
A: A spray booth is an enclosed area for painting. It helps control overspray and fumes.
Q: How do I create designs with masking tape?
A: Apply the masking tape to create the design. Paint over the tape. Remove the tape when the paint is dry.
Q: What if the paint runs?
A: If the paint runs, stop painting. Let it dry completely. Then, you can try to sand it smooth and repaint.
Q: How do I protect my eyes and lungs?
A: Wear safety glasses and a respirator or mask. Paint in a well-ventilated area.
Q: Where can I buy RC car paint?
A: You can buy RC car paint at hobby shops, online retailers, and some craft stores.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!