[re-slotted]

Can someone give me some advice as to what sort of paint to use on my routed mdf track (rally), I don't particularly want to use the 'sandtex' type as I prefer a smooth finish but I will be texturing the surface in certain locations with the addition of sand or similar to try and represent a change in grip (as you would find in the 1:1 version )

 

[JEXY1]

All the wood tracks i have painted have used simple emulsion - either a matt or silk finish. Texture can be added by simply adding grit into the paint.

One thing i would recomend is to enure you paint both sides of the wood. If you only paint the top surface, over time the board will warp, especially MDF as this absorbs the paint more.

To make colours simply mix up some poster paints with your main paint.

 

[aerodynamic]

Most wood primers work well - I've used them on MDF (special hardwood primer) and my Carrera plastic track (B & Q undercoat-primer) - and they seem pretty robust. Some primers specify they are for 'hard' surfaces and these are the best (i.e. they adhere better to smooth surfaces, rather than expecting to soak in). Any good decorators' shop should be able to point you in the right direction.

 

[wayneslot]

Hi
i used blackboard paint for my last routed track and that worked really well very durable and gave a good grip level once it had been ran in a bit and cleaned it reguarly (Wiped with a cloth with WD40 sprayed on).

For my current track a build in progress i am using floor paint Looks like it should give a good grip level.

The only reason i have changed from Blackboard paint is i felt it was to dark in colour for realistic tarmac.

Wayne

 

[Black3sr]

QUOTE (re-slotted @ 12 Jul 2011, 04:01) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>Can someone give me some advice as to what sort of paint to use on my routed mdf track (rally), I don't particularly want to use the 'sandtex' type as I prefer a smooth finish but I will be texturing the surface in certain locations with the addition of sand or similar to try and represent a change in grip (as you would find in the 1:1 version )

You do not want to add sand etc. It will only scratch cars when sliding over it upside down or else will trip them up. Use the cheapest flat latex . Give track two coats with sanding after both for a smooth surface.

 

[keysandslots]

I did exactly what Black3sr suggested, works great. I use urethane tires, grip is great. I took a trip over to the local big box store (in my case, Home Depot) and asked them to whip up something that looked like a standard road. They thought I might be a bit nuts at first but it worked out well.

Randy

 

[re-slotted]

Having chatted with various people I will be avoiding anything coarse being mixed into the paint, one suggestion I will take on board is Polycote textured paint (fleck type) representing rough/loose surfaces, having seen it used this week it looks ideal as it is available in a wide range of colours and gives a realistic look that will not cause damage/excessive wear

 

[brembo]

In general any paint that has an element of laytex in them are a safe bet for example some undercoats and primers, garage floor paints, exterior paints all use latex to help them adhere to the surface they are applied to and makes them a little more flexible.
However I would not recommend using PVA because this will give you too much grip.
Regards
Brembo