RC Car - How Do You Dye RC Car Parts?

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How Do You Dye RC Car Parts?

Comments: Dear Pro,

Let me start by saying, "GREAT SITE!" I'm a newbie to R/C Cars, but have been into planes for a while. Your site has some great info!!

Here's my question, how do you dye white plastic parts? Is there only a certain type of plastic it works on?

Thanks
Joe

Response: Joe,

It is actually very easy to dye white nylon parts.

First step, you must determine if the parts you want to dye are dye-able. You cannot dye regular plastic parts, the material must be nylon (such as the material used on the old Associated cars before they changed the color to black). Most rims are dye-able. If you know that your parts are nylon for sure than move onto step two. If you are not sure you should ask someone who knows like your local hobby shop. You can and will damage the components if you attempt to dye them when they are not dye-able.

Second step, go to a pharmacy or general store and purchase clothing dye in the desired color (Some brand names are Tintex or RIT, but any brand will do).

Third step, boil some water in an old pot on the stove (you don't actually have to get the water boiling, just really hot. Setting the temperature to medium will do fine). Once the water is hot, add the packet of clothing dye to the water. Next, place all of your parts into the hot water and stir them like it is dinner (be careful not to splash the water with the dye in it, it will stain your clothes and surrounding surfaces). Continue stirring the nylon parts in the heated water and dye solution until they reach the desired color (this may take anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes).

Fourth step, once the desired color is reached dump out the water and parts into the sink and carefully rinse them off ensuring that there is no dye left on them. Also rinse out the pot and sink to ensure that they don't get stained. Dry off your parts. Allow them to sit out for a while before you put them back onto the car to make sure that they are completely dry. If you put a bearing or other metal part onto a wet component you run the risk of rust or corrosion on your car.

That's it, you are done. If you attempt to dye parts that are not nylon or dye-able, chances are that the hot water will warp or melt them and render them useless, so be sure your components are compatible before attempting this project. Also remember that you are working with clothing dye that can and will stain your clothing if it touches you. Be very careful and make sure you prepare the area before you start any of this process.

One more note. If you dye your parts and they look terrible with your chosen color you can re-dye them. You can only go darker though. You can not re-dye a part lighter.

Let's take off a few tenths per lap,

"PRO"
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