Paint first, or cutout first?

[feasty33]

Hi,

I'm not that new to painting, but I'm definitely new to painting properly!

I just have 2 questions both regarding 1/10th TC shells.

Firstly, why do the pro's cutout the shell only once its been painted?
I used to assume it was to help minimize overspray getting onto the outside of the body, but with the protective shrinkwrap now fitted I'm not so sure.

Secondly, what is the benefit of masking out the centre of the wheel arch area?

Thanks in advance for any answers

Dave

[U1timate PigDog]

Hey,

Personally I cut them after because it stops the sides flapping all over when spraying the shell. For anyone I spray a shell for it means they can cut there wheel arches to the desired position.

I also leave a circle in the wheel arch so I can see the wheel nut so I can cut from the center of the wheel for my arch which minimizes the chances of cutting them wrong.

Hope that helps

[jonmiller]

it's all a matter of personal preference. i cut out first as i don't see the point in messing up a freshly painted shell by doing it the other way.

center of arches masked for the reason piggy d mentioned.

[feasty33]

I also leave a circle in the wheel arch so I can see the wheel nut so I can cut from the center of the wheel for my arch which minimizes the chances of cutting them wrong.

Thanks for the replies,

Just want to make sure i'm understanding the above correctly.
Do you mean that you cut the wheel arch using the wheel nut as the dead centre?
If so i assumed the score lines on the bodyshell would suffice, or have i missed the point??

Also as a side note, do you key the inside of the shell before painting?


Dave

[telboy]

Personally, if you're using masking tape, then I'd cut out after. But now with the wonders of liquid mask, it doesn't really matter. So as Jon said, personal preference. :)

[U1timate PigDog]

Hey Feasty,

Yea personally when I do a body for myself I would


First align bodyshell to required position (using some cut down body posts) and mark body posts with a marker (no reaming at this point!)



Mark wheels and ensure there in the correct position within wheel arch



Now Liquid mask, cut mask, paint. leave to dry



I then ream the body holes and trim to size, I then mount shell and check the previously marked centres are in the correct position and cut out the wheel arches to suit.

I like to fit my body so it fits a little more snuggly against the bumper without compromising the position of the wheels within the arch. (I find it stops the top of the arch cracking quite so much when you crash LOL)

Hope that all makes sense :D

Have cut out before tho and its not much of a problem, just dont like the flapping lol