Repainting the Wltoys 104001 Body: My First Attempt

This guide's video (Spanish)

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After the 104001 brushless conversion, I wanted a personal look. Instead of painting outside, I tried removing the original finish and applying the design inside the body.

Testing on the Wing First

I tried several products; an HG adhesive remover worked best for me. I removed much of the wing’s paint, although marks remained. That encouraged me to continue with the body.

My test does not establish compatibility with every plastic or RC finish. The link identifies what I used, rather than a universal body stripper. Consult the product instructions and confirm material compatibility before attempting it.

Removing Paint Was the Long Part

It took considerable rubbing. After running out of product, I found continued rubbing could mark the surface. I eventually also used wet abrasive paper, and stubborn residue remained.

Although the video description calls it a tutorial, the result has limitations: I did not restore a like-new clear body. This was a workshop experience involving considerable effort and visible marks.

The recording also mentions smell and poor ventilation at the start. That is not an example to repeat: follow the manufacturer’s requirements for use, ventilation and protection.

Windows, Masking and Colours

After cleaning, I marked the windows and masked inside. I chose fluorescent and black sections. I became concerned that black might show through the first colour, so checked how to proceed before finishing.

The video shows unmasking and the exterior result. Painting inside preserves the body’s outside feel, but does not erase defects left by removing the old finish.

The Result and Whether I Would Repeat It

This was my first painted body, and the design differed from my original idea. I enjoyed trying, but would not call it a quick way to obtain a fresh body.

I particularly liked the wing’s transparent appearance. The overall result still had room for improvement and took substantial work. Consider that effort if you want a clean finish with little dismantling.

The 104001 model page collects this phase and the mechanical modifications. This post documents the finish, without adding a performance test of the conversion.

Product Used in the Video