1/28 RC Bodies: Design, Fitment, Painting and Benefits
1/28 scale RC cars have gathered quite a following in the RC car racing community. These small, compact cars are great for indoor and outdoor racing and offer a unique racing experience. Apart from their lightweight and nimble design, some of the most crucial components of 1/28 RC cars are their bodies. RC car bodies are like the outer shell of these small machines that give them both a unique look and aerodynamic qualities. The design of the body determines how your car interacts with the track and the airflow, which can significantly affect the overall performance of the car. Hence, 1/28 RC bodies come in a wide range of designs, shapes, and materials to appeal to different racers’ preferences and track requirements. In the following paragraphs, we will explore everything there is to know about 1/28 RC bodies, from their design, materials, and customization options to their benefits and optimal fitment.
1/28 RC bodies come in different design and material options, each with unique properties that affect the car’s performance and aesthetics. Some of the most commonly used materials for RC bodies include:
- Polycarbonate plastic – A durable, lightweight material that is easy to mold and shape.
- Nylon – A strong and flexible thermoplastic that can withstand impacts and crashes without cracking or breaking.
- ABS – A hard plastic that is resistant to scratches and provides exceptional protection to the car’s powertrain and components.
In terms of design, the possibilities are endless when it comes to 1/28 RC bodies. Some of the most popular designs include touring cars, formula cars, and off-road buggies. Some of the design elements that vary between different body types include:
- Wheelbase – The distance between the front and rear wheels
- Width – The distance between the left and right wheels
- Length – The overall length of the car body
- Aerodynamics – The shape and form of the body to affect the car’s downforce and drag
Different designs may appeal to different types of racers, and each design has a specific function and performs best in certain types of tracks. Online stores such as RC Planet and HobbyTown offer a wide variety of 1/28 RC bodies with different designs and materials.
What is body type in design?
Body type in design refers to the shape of an individual’s body and how it affects the choice of clothes that suits them. Body type is determined by taking four measurements of shoulders, bust, waist, and hips. Women typically fall into five categories: apple, pear, hourglass, inverted triangle, or rectangle depending on their body shape. Understanding body type helps to create flattering designs for each shape. This information is essential for fashion designers and retailers to create clothes that fit well on different women.
Body Mounts and Fitment
Proper fitment is critical when using 1/28 RC car bodies. A well-fitted body will not only improve the car’s performance but also enhance its overall appearance. Here are some key points to understand about body mounts and fitment:
- Body mount positions – Different RC cars use different body mounts which can affect the fitment of the body. Body mounts determine the height and location of the body on the car’s chassis.
- Clip-type vs. Magnetic – Body mounts can either be clip-type or magnetic. Clip-type mounts use clips to secure the body while magnetic mounts use magnets to keep the body in place.
- Adjustability – Some body mounts can be adjusted to change the height of the body which can improve stability and handling.
It’s essential to measure the car’s wheelbase, width, and length to ensure a perfect fit. Most 1/28 RC car bodies come with pre-cut holes for body mounts and are compatible with specific RC car models. Check the manufacturer’s information before purchasing to make sure the body fits the car.
Here is an article to help with body mount position measurements:
| Body mount Position | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Front body mount | Measure from the center of the front wheel to the center of the top hole on the front shock tower. |
| Rear body mount | Measure from the center of the rear wheel to the center of the top hole on the rear shock tower. |
Hobby stores such as Tower Hobbies and AMain Hobbies provide a wide selection of body mounts and fittings that match specific body models and RC cars.
How do I know if I need a new body mount?
Misaligned doors and fender gaps are an obvious sign that you may need a new body mount. If you are having trouble opening or closing your doors or have to slam them several times to get them to latch, this could indicate that the bushings are worn out. Another sign to look for is a gap between the fender and door. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to replace your body mount bushings. Check out automotive websites such as AutoZone or NAPA for replacement parts.
Painting and Customization
1/28 RC car bodies are perfect for customization, and there are plenty of ways to make them stand out on the track. Here are a few tips for painting and customizing 1/28 RC bodies:
- Scrub the body – Before painting the body, it’s essential to scrub it with soap and water to remove any contaminants.
- Use vinyl decals – Vinyl Decals add a unique touch to the body’s design without the need for painting. These decals are available in various designs and colours.
- Tape the windows – Cover the windows with masking tape before painting the body to ensure that paint does not enter the windows.
- Use a clean workspace – A clean workspace is essential to prevent unwanted debris from getting stuck on the body during painting.
- Sand the body – Sand the body with fine-grit sandpaper before painting to ensure the paint adheres to the surface.
Many websites sell customized 1/28 RC car bodies, including the popular brands of Protoform and Kyosho. Customization packages include airbrushed paint and body modifications for several RC car brands and models. Moreover, video tutorials that feature painting and customization techniques on 1/28 RC car bodies are available on YouTube and websites like hobbytalk.com.
Can a car be customized?
Yes, car customization is possible. Most major car manufacturers offer customization options on their websites where you can select features, colors, and accessories for your new vehicle. This online shopping tool is usually free and gives you the option to personalize your car to your liking.
Benefits of 1/28 RC Bodies
1/28 RC bodies offer many benefits to those looking to race RC cars, including:
- Lightweight design – 1/28 RC car bodies are designed to be lightweight to improve the speed and handling of the car.
- Maneuverability – The lightweight design of 1/28 RC car bodies also makes the car more agile and easier to maneuver around the track.
- Compatibility – Many 1/28 RC car bodies are compatible with a range of different models and brands, providing ample options for racers to choose from.
- Flexibility – The flexibility of polycarbonate plastic 1/28 RC car bodies also makes them more durable and resistant to cracking, puncturing, and deformation on impact.
- Availability – 1/28 RC car bodies are widely available in various designs and materials from popular online hobby shops, such as amainhobbies.com and towerhobbies.com, as well as brick-and-mortar stores, such as Hobby Lobby and Walmart.
Overall, the lightweight design and improved maneuverability of 1/28 RC car bodies make them a top choice for racers looking for increased performance on the track. Additionally, the flexibility and availability of these bodies make it easy for racers to find the perfect design for their specific needs.
What is the best RC car for speed?
The best RC car for speed is the ARRMA Kraton 8S BLX 4WD Monster Truck. It is known for being tough and one of the fastest on the market. You can check out the product on the manufacturer’s website for more information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 1/28 RC car bodies are an essential component for any RC car racing enthusiast. They play a crucial role in determining the speed, handling, and overall performance of a car on the track. By choosing the right material, design, and fit, racers can enhance the appearance and improve their chances of winning races. Customizing 1/28 RC car bodies allows for maximum creativity and uniqueness on the track. However, it’s important to select bodies that are compatible with your model and have the proper fitment for optimal performance. With a vast array of options available online and in stores, finding the perfect 1/28 RC car body has never been easier. Start exploring the different designs and materials, and remember to prioritize lightweight and maneuverability for the best results on the racecourse.
