Policarbonate spray PS-33 Cherry Red

A classic from Tamiya's PS range with the most sought-after cherry red in slot racing

The PS-33 Cherry Red Spray (TA86033) is part of Tamiya's PS range, an absolute reference in polycarbonate paint within modelling and slot racing. A deep cherry red, with a slight cool undertone that distinguishes it from pure red, has featured in some of the most iconic liveries of competition cars from the 70s and 80s. If you are looking for that shade for your slot car body or for a static model project, the PS-33 is the most straightforward choice.

Main features

• Content: 100 ml per can.
• Reference: TA86033 / PS-33.
• Colour: Cherry Red — deep cherry red with a slight cool undertone.
• Formulation: specific for polycarbonate (lexan) and flexible plastics.
• Application: direct spray, no compressor or additional equipment needed.

Applications

The PS range is designed to work on polycarbonate, the usual material for slot car bodies and dynamic models. The usual technique is to apply the paint from the inside of the transparent body: the colour is protected by the plastic itself, resulting in a natural glossy finish and significantly higher resistance to scrapes and track impacts.

It can also be used on other flexible modelling plastics, in combination with other sprays from the PS range for multi-layer effects, gradients, or masked with layers of different colours.

Compatibility

Formulated for polycarbonate (lexan), although it can adhere to other common plastics in static models and figures. Compatible with the rest of the colours in Tamiya's PS range, allowing for the development of complex liveries by applying layers from the inside of the body. Not recommended for metals without prior priming or porous surfaces without treatment.

Finishes and application tips

• Shake the can for at least one minute before starting and every few seconds during use to maintain a homogeneous mixture.
• Apply from a distance of 20 to 30 cm from the surface to achieve an even coverage and avoid drips.
• On slot car bodies, always paint from the inside: the colour remains between the plastic and the view, protected and with a glossy finish without the need for varnish.
• To achieve a brighter and more saturated cherry red, first apply a layer of PS-1 white or PS-12 silver as a reflective base.
• Respect drying times between layers to avoid bubbles or cracking; temperature and ambient humidity influence the final curing time.
• Low-tack masks and water decals work well on completely dry PS layers.

Ideal for...

Slot enthusiasts who want to customise their bodies with professional results without resorting to an airbrush. Also for modellers working with flexible plastics or needing a bright and saturated cherry red in static model projects, figures, or dioramas. The PS-33 is especially sought after for replicas of competition cars from the 70s and 80s, where cherry red was prominent in various single-seaters and historic prototypes.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply this spray on ABS or standard injection plastic?

The PS range is optimised for polycarbonate, but it can adhere to other plastics. To ensure adhesion on ABS or other materials, we recommend proper priming and a test on an inconspicuous area before painting the entire piece.

Is it necessary to clean the body before painting?

Yes, always. Any residue of grease, dust, or release agent will ruin adhesion. A wash with warm water and neutral soap, followed by complete drying, is sufficient in most cases.

How many layers do I need for an opaque coverage?

Generally, two or three thin layers well spaced provide solid coverage. If starting from a transparent body and looking for a pure and bright red, a base of white or silver significantly enhances the final tone.

How much surface does a 100 ml can cover?

The yield varies depending on the number of layers and technique, but a 100 ml can is more than sufficient to paint several slot car bodies in 1/32 or 1/24 scale with full coverage.

Is the PS-33 compatible with cut masks and decals?

Yes. You can use low-tack adhesive masks over dry layers of PS-33 to create multicolour designs. Ensure that each layer is fully cured before masking to prevent the mask from lifting the paint.

Tamiya PS-33 Cherry Red spray (TA86033) is a polycarbonate-specific paint from Tamiya's trusted PS range, delivering a deep, vibrant cherry red finish ideal for slot car bodies, lexan shells and flexible plastic scale models. Applied from the inside of transparent bodies, it provides a naturally self-protected gloss coat with excellent resistance to track wear. Compatible with all PS range colours for multi-layer liveries and race car replicas. A go-to choice for slot car enthusiasts and scale modellers seeking professional results straight from the can.