Are you a beginner RC drift car enthusiast looking for the best ways to clean and maintain your car body shell? Look no further! In this article, we’ll provide you with some simple and effective tips to keep your car looking its best. With just a little bit of time and effort, you can ensure that your RC drift car body shell stays in top condition, ready to impress your fellow racers and spectators alike. So, let’s get started and discover the secrets to keeping your RC car looking sleek and shiny!
Table of Contents
Materials Needed for Cleaning and Maintaining
To properly clean and maintain your beginner RC drift car body shell, you will need the following materials:
Soft-bristled brush
A soft-bristled brush is essential for removing loose dirt and debris from the body shell. It will help prevent any scratches or damage to the surface.
Microfiber cloth
A microfiber cloth is ideal for drying the body shell after cleaning. It is gentle on the surface and effectively absorbs moisture without leaving any lint behind.
Mild soap or RC car cleaning solution
Using a mild soap or RC car cleaning solution is important to ensure that the body shell is cleaned without harming the paint or decals. Look for a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for RC cars.
Warm water
Warm water is the best choice for cleaning the body shell. It helps in loosening dirt and grime, making it easier to remove.
Old toothbrush
An old toothbrush can be used to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as crevices or intricate details on the body shell. It allows for more precise cleaning.
Compressed air can
A compressed air can is useful for blowing away any remaining dust or debris from the body shell after brushing or washing. It helps in achieving a thorough clean.
Clear coat spray
Applying a clear coat spray to the body shell will provide an extra layer of protection against scratches and damage. It helps to preserve the appearance of the car for a longer period.
Preparation for Cleaning
Before you start cleaning your RC drift car body shell, there are a few important steps you need to take:
Remove the body shell from the RC car chassis
To clean the body shell properly, it is necessary to remove it from the RC car chassis. This allows for better access to all areas and ensures a thorough cleaning.
Inspect the body shell for any damages or loose parts
Before cleaning, carefully inspect the body shell for any damages, cracks, or loose parts. It is essential to address any issues before proceeding with the cleaning process.
Protect fragile elements like antennas or mirrors
If your RC car has fragile elements such as antennas or mirrors, it is important to protect them during the cleaning process. You can cover them with a soft cloth or use masking tape to prevent accidental damage.
Cleaning the Body Shell
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cleaning process for your RC drift car body shell:
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove loose dirt and debris
Start by using a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the body shell. Be thorough but careful to avoid scratching the surface.
Gently clean the body shell with warm soapy water
Next, prepare a mixture of warm water and mild soap or RC car cleaning solution. Dip the soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the body shell. Focus on areas with more dirt or stains.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
It is crucial to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the body shell. These can damage the paint or decals and reduce the overall lifespan of your RC drift car body shell.
Rinse the body shell thoroughly
After cleaning with soapy water, rinse the body shell thoroughly with clean water. Make sure to remove all traces of soap or cleaning solution.
Use an old toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas
Use an old toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as grille-work or intricate details. The bristles of the toothbrush can easily reach into these areas and remove any dirt or grime.
Dry the body shell with a microfiber cloth
Once the body shell has been cleaned and rinsed, use a microfiber cloth to dry it thoroughly. Gently pat the surface to remove any excess moisture. Avoid using abrasive or rough towels that can scratch the body shell.
Maintaining the Body Shell
Regular maintenance is crucial for prolonging the life and appearance of your RC drift car body shell. Here are some important maintenance tips:
Regularly inspect the body shell for any damages or cracks
Regularly inspecting your body shell is important to identify any damages or cracks early on. Promptly addressing small issues can prevent them from worsening and potentially ruining the body shell.
Repair any small damages or cracks as soon as possible
If you notice any small damages, such as scratches or cracks, it is important to repair them as soon as possible. You can use touch-up paint or clear nail polish to cover up minor scratches. For larger cracks, consider using super glue or clear adhesive.
Apply a clear coat spray to protect the body shell from scratches
Applying a clear coat spray to the body shell provides an extra layer of protection against scratches. This protective coating will help preserve the appearance of your RC drift car body shell for a longer period.
Avoid aggressive drifting or collisions that can damage the body shell
While it may be tempting to engage in aggressive drifting or collision maneuvers, it is important to avoid them if you want to maintain the integrity of your body shell. Excessive impacts can cause cracks or dents, compromising the overall look of the car.
Clean the body shell after each use to prevent buildup of dirt and grime
After each use of your RC drift car, make it a habit to clean the body shell. This prevents the buildup of dirt and grime, making the cleaning process easier and ensuring the longevity of the body shell.
Storing the Body Shell
Properly storing your RC drift car body shell is essential to protect it when not in use. Here are some tips for storing your body shell:
Remove any excess dirt or debris
Before storing the body shell, make sure to remove any excess dirt or debris that may have accumulated during use. This prevents further contamination and potential damage during storage.
Wrap the body shell in a soft cloth or bubble wrap
To protect the body shell from scratches or accidental bumps, wrap it in a soft cloth or bubble wrap. This additional layer of padding provides cushioning and prevents any external forces from causing damage.
Store the body shell in a cool, dry place
Choose a cool and dry place to store your body shell. Extreme temperatures and high humidity can have detrimental effects on the body shell, so make sure to avoid such conditions.
Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the body shell
When storing the body shell, avoid placing any heavy objects on top of it. The weight can cause unnecessary pressure and potentially cause cracks or deformations.
Tips for Longevity
To ensure the longevity of your beginner RC drift car body shell, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
Use a protective film on the body shell to minimize scratches
Applying a protective film to the body shell can help minimize scratches caused by normal wear and tear. This film acts as a barrier between the surface and potential sources of damage, preserving the overall appearance of the body shell.
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight
Direct sunlight can fade the paint and decals on your body shell over time. To prevent this, avoid leaving your RC drift car in direct sunlight for extended periods. If necessary, consider using a car cover or storing it indoors.
Do not use excessive force when removing or installing the body shell
When removing or installing the body shell, use gentle and controlled movements. Applying excessive force can lead to cracks or damage to the body shell attachment points.
Consider investing in a spare body shell for variety and backup
Having a spare body shell allows you to change the appearance of your RC drift car and provides a backup in case the original body shell becomes damaged. Consider investing in a spare body shell to add variety to your RC car collection.
Regularly check and tighten body mounting screws
Over time, the body mounting screws may become loose due to vibrations and impacts. Regularly check and tighten these screws to ensure a secure fit and prevent any unnecessary damage to the body shell.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While proper cleaning and maintenance can prevent most issues, here are some troubleshooting tips for common problems you may encounter:
Removing scuffs and marks with rubbing alcohol
If you notice scuffs or marks on the body shell, you can try removing them using rubbing alcohol. Simply apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and gently rub the affected area until the scuffs or marks are gone.
Repairing cracks with super glue or clear adhesive
For small cracks in the body shell, you can use super glue or clear adhesive to repair them. Apply a small amount of glue along the crack and gently press the sides together. Once the glue dries, the crack should be sealed and the body shell will be restored.
Replacing damaged or broken parts
In some cases, the damage to the body shell may be significant, and repairs may not be feasible. If that is the case, you may need to replace the damaged or broken parts. Look for compatible replacement parts from reputable RC car manufacturers or retailers.
Precautions
To ensure your safety and protect the integrity of the body shell, here are some important precautions to keep in mind:
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning and maintenance guidelines for your RC drift car body shell. Following these instructions will help ensure that you are properly caring for your RC car and preserving its appearance and performance.
Avoid using sharp or abrasive tools that can damage the body shell
When cleaning or maintaining the body shell, avoid using sharp or abrasive tools that can cause damage. Stick to the recommended soft-bristled brush, microfiber cloth, and other tools mentioned earlier.
Use caution when using compressed air to prevent eye or skin irritation
Compressed air cans can be useful for blowing away dust and debris, but it is important to use them with caution. Keep a safe distance from the body shell and avoid direct contact with your eyes or skin to prevent irritation or injury.
Conclusion
Cleaning and maintaining your beginner RC drift car body shell is crucial for preserving its appearance and performance. By following the best practices outlined in this article, you can ensure that your body shell stays in great condition for a long time. Regular inspections, repairs, and proper storage will help maximize the life of your body shell and enhance your RC drift car experience. Happy drifting!