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See How Easy it is with ProGraphix Paint
The 2021 Ford Bronco is the latest addition to the Traxxas TRX-4 series, and this super-detailed 4X4 sets a high bar for realism with its detailed body accessories and clipless body. It’s the most authentic-looking (and performing) 2021 Bronco available in RC, but there’s always a little more we can do. We’re using ProGraphix® clear matte finishing spray to give the roof the same no-shine look as Ford’s full-size 4X4. It’s easy to do and makes your Bronco an even closer match to the real deal.
This full-size Bronco shows the matte finish hardtop that we'll be recreating with the ProGraphix spray.
Two sizes are available so you can get just the right amount for your project - the 5 oz can is perfect here.
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Step 1: Remove the Windshield Cowl and Spare Tire
Removing the cowl and spare tire eliminates the need to mask them, and they’re easy to take off. Just remove the three 2.5x8 mm screws that secure the cowl from the underside of the body and unscrew the 4x15 mm bolt that holds the spare onto its mount. You can even remove the mount if you’re feeling ambitious, but it’s easy enough to mask over.
Removing the cowl and spare tire eliminates the need to mask them, and they’re easy to take off. Just remove the three 2.5x8 mm screws that secure the cowl from the underside of the body and unscrew the 4x15 mm bolt that holds the spare onto its mount. You can even remove the mount if you’re feeling ambitious, but it’s easy enough to mask over.
Three screws secure the cowl.
A single bolt holds the spare tire in place.
Step 2: Clean the Body
We don’t want any dirt or mud spatter to interfere with masking and painting. If the body is already clean, just give the roof a wipe-down with a microfiber cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove any dust or fingerprints that might otherwise be trapped by the clear matte finish.
We don’t want any dirt or mud spatter to interfere with masking and painting. If the body is already clean, just give the roof a wipe-down with a microfiber cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove any dust or fingerprints that might otherwise be trapped by the clear matte finish.
A final wipe-down after cleaning remove any fine dust or fingerprints.Step 3: Mask the Body and Windows
Blue painters’ tape will do the job here. Use a fresh blade to trim the tape to ensure a clean line that won’t allow paint to bleed under. After you’re through masking, give the roof one more wipe-down to remove any fingerprints the roof may have received as you handled the body during the masking process.
Blue painters’ tape will do the job here. Use a fresh blade to trim the tape to ensure a clean line that won’t allow paint to bleed under. After you’re through masking, give the roof one more wipe-down to remove any fingerprints the roof may have received as you handled the body during the masking process.
The Traxxas 3437 hobby knife includes six blades. Using a fresh blade will ensure your tape cuts are crisp and will seal out paint effectively.
Now we’re ready for the clear finish. We used paper to cover the hood and door panels more quickly and conserve tape.
Step 4: Apply the Matte Clear Finishing Spray
Always apply Traxxas ProGraphix paint in a well-ventilated area (outdoors is best), and it’s a good idea to wear eye protection when applying any spray finish. Shake the can thoroughly and apply the paint in smooth strokes from 6-8 inches away. Make a few test passes on a scrap of cardboard to get familiar with how the paint flows. Even though it’s colorless, you can easily see where the spray is covering as you apply it. Once you’ve got full coverage on the roof and side panels, let the matte finish dry.
Always apply Traxxas ProGraphix paint in a well-ventilated area (outdoors is best), and it’s a good idea to wear eye protection when applying any spray finish. Shake the can thoroughly and apply the paint in smooth strokes from 6-8 inches away. Make a few test passes on a scrap of cardboard to get familiar with how the paint flows. Even though it’s colorless, you can easily see where the spray is covering as you apply it. Once you’ve got full coverage on the roof and side panels, let the matte finish dry.
One full-coverage coat is all you need.
We masked half the roof so you can see a before-and-after comparison. That’s quite a difference!
Step 5: Inspect, Unmask, and Reassemble
After the clear finish is dry, inspect the roof from different angles to make sure you’ve achieved even coverage and touch up if needed. Avoid re-spraying the entire roof, as the flat texture may build and create a pebble effect with repeated coats. When you’re satisfied with the matte coverage, go ahead and peel the masking off and reinstall the cowl and spare tire.
After the clear finish is dry, inspect the roof from different angles to make sure you’ve achieved even coverage and touch up if needed. Avoid re-spraying the entire roof, as the flat texture may build and create a pebble effect with repeated coats. When you’re satisfied with the matte coverage, go ahead and peel the masking off and reinstall the cowl and spare tire.
Here’s the finished matte-top Bronco. Looks good!And there you have it: even greater realism for your 2021 Ford Bronco with a matte-finish roof just like the full-size 4X4.
