Tamiya PS-46 Iridescent Flip Purple Green Polycarbonate RC Spray Paint 100ml TAM86046

Overview

The Tamiya Lexan Spray Paint PS-46 Iridescent Flip Purple/Green is a premium polycarbonate spray paint specifically formulated for decorating transparent Lexan bodies used in RC car modelling across the UK and beyond. This innovative paint represents Tamiya's commitment to expanding creative finishing options for RC enthusiasts, whether you're a seasoned competitor running your RC buggy at the track or a weekend basher enjoying casual off-road fun. Following the success of Tamiya's translucent colour range, this new iridescent concept introduces a stunning visual dimension to polycarbonate spray paint that simply cannot be achieved with standard finishes.

What makes the Tamiya PS-46 Iridescent Purple/Green truly special is the colour-shifting effect that changes shade depending on the viewing angle. When light hits the painted body from different directions, the colour transforms from vibrant purple to shimmering green, creating a brilliant effect that makes your RC car stand out from the rest. This dynamic finish is particularly striking on RC bodies when the vehicle is in motion, catching the light as it drifts around corners or powers across the terrain. Whether you're building a competitive RC racer, a drift car, or simply want to personalise your RC vehicle with a showstopping finish, this paint delivers results that turn heads.

Each 100ml aerosol can contains the perfect amount of paint to complete a typical RC body, making it convenient and economical. The paint is impervious to oil and fuels, so it can be safely applied to gas-powered RC bodies without degradation. For electric-powered RC car setups in the UK market, this paint is equally suitable. However, it is crucial to understand that this product is formulated exclusively for polycarbonate (Lexan) bodies and should never be used on plastic model kits.

Key Features

• Iridescent Colour-Shifting Effect — The paint changes from purple to green depending on the viewing angle, creating a dynamic visual effect that makes your RC body appear completely different as light conditions and perspective change, perfect for making your RC car truly unique on the track or trail.
• Formulated for Polycarbonate Bodies — This spray paint was developed specifically for transparent polycarbonate (Lexan) RC bodies, ensuring optimal adhesion, durability and colour brilliance compared to generic spray paints that may not bond properly or provide consistent coverage.
• 100ml Aerosol Can — Each can contains exactly the right amount of paint to finish a typical RC body, eliminating waste and ensuring consistency between coats without requiring multiple cans or running out of paint mid-project.
• Oil and Fuel Resistant Formula — The paint remains impervious to oil and fuels, making it completely safe for use on nitro-powered and gas-powered RC vehicles, maintaining its vibrant finish and integrity even with regular fuel exposure.
• Interior Spray Application — The paint is applied from inside the polycarbonate body, which protects the painted surface from abrasion and damage while creating a brilliant glossy finish that's visible from the outside, extending the life of your custom paint job.
• Requires Black Backing Coat — The iridescent effect requires a backing coat of PS-5 Black spray paint (sold separately) to achieve the full colour-shifting brilliance, creating a professional factory-quality finish that genuinely pops and captures light.

Technical Performance

The Tamiya PS-46 Iridescent Flip Purple/Green spray paint represents precision engineering in aerosol paint formulation. The paint applies as a semi-transparent iridescent layer when sprayed onto the inside of polycarbonate bodies. The critical technique for successful application involves spraying from approximately 30cm distance from the surface, applying light, even coats rather than heavy single applications. This method prevents runs and pooling, which can occur if too much paint is applied at once given the thin, clear nature of the iridescent formulation. After allowing adequate curing time between coats, apply additional layers as necessary to achieve desired colour intensity and uniformity. The paint's chemistry is specifically balanced to adhere permanently to polycarbonate whilst remaining flexible enough to resist cracking or peeling as the plastic flexes during hard RC driving. The oil and fuel-resistant properties are achieved through a specialised resin system that creates a molecular bond with the polycarbonate substrate, unlike paints formulated for other materials. When properly applied with the required PS-5 Black backing coat, the combination creates a layered optical effect where light passes through the iridescent coat, bounces off the black backing, and returns through the iridescent layer again, doubling the colour saturation and creating the distinctive flip effect. The finish cures to a durable, high-gloss sheen that resists fading from UV exposure during outdoor RC sessions.

What's in the Box

• 1x 100ml aerosol can of Tamiya PS-46 Iridescent Flip Purple/Green polycarbonate spray paint

What You Need to Complete

• PS-5 Black spray paint (sold separately) — essential for applying the backing coat that activates the iridescent effect and creates the colour-shifting finish
• Polycarbonate RC body — the paint is formulated exclusively for polycarbonate/Lexan bodies, not plastic model kits
• Respirator or well-ventilated workspace — spray painting should always be performed in a properly ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes
• Masking tape and newspaper or drop cloth — to protect surrounding areas from overspray
• Optional: Tamiya polycarbonate bottle paints — for detailed brush-painted work on intricate body areas before spray coating

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does the iridescent paint work without a black backing coat? — No, the iridescent effect will not work without applying the PS-5 Black backing coat. The black backing is essential because it reflects light back through the iridescent layer, creating the colour-shifting effect. Without it, the paint appears nearly invisible and will not deliver the intended brilliant finish. This is not optional—it is a mandatory step in the application process.
• Can I use this paint on plastic model kits? — Absolutely not. This paint is formulated exclusively for polycarbonate (Lexan) bodies used in RC car modelling. Never use this paint on plastic model kits, as it will not adhere properly and may damage the plastic. Using the wrong substrate will result in poor finish quality and potential damage to your model.
• How much paint does one can cover? — Each 100ml can is specifically measured to provide the appropriate amount for finishing a typical RC body with multiple coats. One can is usually sufficient for a standard RC body shell, though the exact coverage depends on application technique and desired colour intensity.
• Is this suitable for gas-powered or nitro RC cars? — Yes, this paint is fully suitable for both gas-powered and nitro-powered RC vehicles. The formula is impervious to oil and fuels, so fuel exposure will not degrade or damage the painted finish. This makes it an excellent choice for nitro RC enthusiasts.
• What is the proper application technique to avoid runs? — Spray the paint from approximately 30cm away from the polycarbonate surface, applying light, even coats rather than heavy applications. Allow adequate drying time between coats before applying additional layers. The paint is thin and nearly clear, making it difficult to see coverage, so patience is essential. Do not oversaturate the surface in a single coat, as this will cause runs and drips that can ruin your body shell.
• How long does the paint take to cure between coats? — Allow the paint to fully cure before applying additional coats. The exact drying time depends on temperature, humidity, and ventilation, but light coats typically dry quickly. Wait until the previous coat is completely dry to the touch before spraying the next layer to prevent runs.
• Will this paint work on my RC car that runs indoors and outdoors? — Yes, this paint is suitable for both indoor and outdoor RC use. The finish resists fading from UV exposure during outdoor sessions and provides durable protection whether your RC car is used on indoor carpet tracks, outdoor dirt circuits, or mixed environments.
• What makes this paint different from regular Tamiya spray paints? — This iridescent paint is specifically formulated with colour-shifting pigments that change appearance based on viewing angle, unlike solid colour spray paints. Additionally, it requires the mandatory black backing coat to function properly, whereas standard Tamiya spray paints provide complete coverage with a single colour. The iridescent effect creates a dynamic, eye-catching finish that standard paints cannot replicate.
• Can I apply this paint over existing paint? — The paint is designed for application to clean polycarbonate bodies. If you are repainting a previously painted body, ensure the old paint is completely removed or sanded down first, as the new iridescent paint needs to bond directly to polycarbonate for optimal adhesion and effect.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Tamiya, Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Tamiya Lexan Spray Paint - PS-46 Iridescent Flip Purple/Green TAM86046 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction.