Does your prized RC car look a little… plain? You’ve spent hours tuning the engine and perfecting the chassis, but a dull body shell just won’t cut it. Getting that vibrant, durable finish you see on professional models feels like a mystery, right? Choosing the perfect paint for your RC car body can be tricky. You worry about colors fading, paint peeling after a big crash, or finding a product that actually sticks to that specific plastic shell.
We know the frustration of putting time into painting only to have it look sloppy or wear out fast. That’s why we dove deep into the world of RC car finishes. This guide cuts through the confusion. You will learn exactly which paints offer the best adhesion, the brightest colors, and the toughest protection for your speedy machine.
Keep reading to discover the secrets professional builders use. We will break down the best types of paint, essential preparation steps, and application tips so your next paint job is your best one yet. Get ready to transform your ride from basic to breathtaking!
Top Paint For Rc Car Bodies Recommendations
- Easy to Spray
- Extremely Durable and Ultra-Flexible
- Wide Grip Nozzle
- Specially Formulated for R/C Bodies
- Made in USA
- Easy to Spray
- Extremely Durable and Ultra-Flexible
- Wide Grip Nozzle
- Specially Formulated for R/C Bodies
- Made in USA
- Easy to Spray
- Extremely Durable and Ultra-Flexible
- Wide Grip Nozzle
- Specially Formulated for R/C Bodies
- Made in USA
- Easy to Spray
- Extremely Durable and Ultra-Flexible
- Wide Grip Nozzle
- Specially Formulated for R/C Bodies
- Made in USA
- High quality hobby paint
- Use Tamiya stock and hop-up replacement parts, accessories, and more to get the most out of your models
- Tamiya Polycarbonate Spray Paint
- Package dimensions: 2.0" L x 2.0" W x 4.13" H
- Easy to Spray
- Extremely Durable and Ultra-Flexible
- Wide Grip Nozzle
- Specially Formulated for R/C Bodies
- Made in USA
- Easy to Spray
- Extremely Durable and Ultra-Flexible
- Wide Grip Nozzle
- Specially Formulated for R/C Bodies
- Made in USA
- Easy to Spray
- Extremely Durable and Ultra-Flexible
- Wide Grip Nozzle
- Specially Formulated for R/C Bodies
- Made in USA
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Paint for Your RC Car Body
Painting your remote-controlled (RC) car body makes it look cool. It also protects the plastic. Picking the right paint is important. This guide helps you choose the best paint for your next project.
Key Features to Look For
When buying paint for an RC body, look for a few key things.
- Flexibility: RC cars crash sometimes. The paint must bend without cracking or peeling off. Flexible paint stays on even when the body flexes.
- Adhesion: Good adhesion means the paint sticks well to the polycarbonate (Lexan) plastic used in most RC bodies. Poor adhesion leads to flaking.
- Durability: The paint needs to handle dirt, minor scratches, and sunlight. Look for paints labeled as durable or long-lasting.
- Ease of Application: Some paints spray on smoothly. Others might require more skill. Beginners should look for easy-to-use spray cans.
Important Materials: What is Your Paint Made Of?
The material inside the can matters a lot. Most high-quality RC body paints are specialized.
Polycarbonate (Lexan) Specific Paints
The plastic on RC bodies is often Lexan. Regular spray paints often do not stick to Lexan well. You must use paints made specifically for Lexan. These paints chemically bond with the plastic.
Types of Finishes
Paints come in different looks. Glossy paints shine brightly. Matte or flat paints give a duller, stealthy look. Metallic paints have tiny flakes that sparkle in the light. Choose the finish that matches your style.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one can of paint better than another?
Factors That Improve Quality
- Proper Surface Prep: You must clean the body thoroughly before painting. Removing mold release agents (oily residue from manufacturing) greatly improves how well the paint sticks.
- Multiple Thin Coats: Applying one thick coat usually causes runs and bubbles. Several thin, even coats dry better and create a stronger bond.
- Backing Coats: After painting the outside color, applying a backing coat (usually white or silver) protects the color from scratches on the inside and makes the color brighter.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Painting a Dirty Body: Dirt or fingerprints trap underneath the paint. The paint will lift off later.
- Painting in High Humidity or Cold: Extreme weather slows drying time. This can cause the paint to wrinkle or fail to cure properly.
- Using the Wrong Paint Type: As mentioned, using standard household spray paint on Lexan plastic is a recipe for peeling paint after the first run.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use this paint?
Hobby-Grade vs. Craft Paints
Hobby-grade paints (like those from Tamiya or Pactra) are designed for the rigors of RC bashing and racing. They cost more, but they last much longer. Craft acrylic paints are usually too brittle for the outside of an RC body. They crack quickly when the body flexes.
Inside vs. Outside Painting
Most RC enthusiasts paint the body from the inside. This protects the paint job from scratches when the car rolls over or hits obstacles. If you paint the outside, you need a super durable, clear coat applied afterward for protection. Inside painting is often easier and more durable for beginners.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About RC Car Body Paint
Q: Can I use regular Krylon or Rust-Oleum spray paint?
A: No, generally you should not. Regular spray paints do not stick well to the flexible Lexan plastic used for most RC bodies. They usually peel right off.
Q: What is the best type of paint for Lexan RC bodies?
A: Look for paints specifically labeled for “Polycarbonate” or “Lexan.” These are formulated to flex and adhere correctly to that plastic type.
Q: Should I paint the body inside or outside?
A: Painting the inside is the standard method. It protects the paint job from external damage. If you paint the outside, you must use a very durable clear coat.
Q: How many coats of paint should I apply?
A: You should apply several thin, light coats instead of one thick coat. This prevents runs and ensures better overall adhesion and a smoother finish.
Q: Do I need to clear coat my painted body?
A: If you paint the outside, yes, a clear coat adds protection. If you paint the inside (the standard way), a white or silver backing coat acts as your protective layer.
Q: How long does the paint need to dry before I can use the car?
A: Drying time varies, but wait at least 24 hours after the final coat before running the car hard. Full curing (hardening) might take several days.
Q: What should I use to clean the body before painting?
A: Wash the inside surface with mild soap and water first. Then, wipe it down thoroughly with a degreaser like rubbing alcohol or specialized prep solvent to remove all oils.
Q: What if I mess up a section? Can I fix it?
A: Yes, if you catch it right away while the paint is still wet, you can often wipe it off with a rag dampened with the appropriate cleaner (like mineral spirits or specific RC cleaner). Dried mistakes are harder to fix.
Q: Are candy colors or pearl paints better?
A: Candy and pearl paints look amazing, but they often require a light base coat underneath to show their true color. They might also require more careful application than standard solid colors.
Q: Can I use an airbrush instead of spray cans?
A: Yes, airbrushes work very well for detailed work and thin, even coats. You must thin the paint correctly for your airbrush setup if you use bottled airbrush paint.