TAMIYA PS5 BLACK

Reference Black for Polycarbonate: Tamiya PS5 Spray

The PS series from Tamiya has been the benchmark choice for painting polycarbonate bodies for decades, both in RC cars and slot car bodies. The PS5 Black (ref. TA86005) is one of the most widely used colours in the range: a solid, opaque black with great chromatic depth, which covers uniformly and adheres reliably to clear plastic without the need for primer.

Main Features

• Specific Formula for Polycarbonate: developed to adhere to this flexible and transparent material, common in RC and slot racing bodies.
• Spray Application: balanced propellant and pigmentation for even spraying, with no drips or build-up when using the correct technique.
• Colour: opaque black with excellent coverage, ideal both as a final colour and as a base for shading or masking techniques.
• Fast Drying: the Tamiya PS formula allows for successive layers to be applied in reasonable times, facilitating the planning of complex decorations.

Applications

The PS5 Black is a versatile option in the modelling and preparation workshop:

• Polycarbonate bodies for RC cars of all scales.
• Transparent slot car bodies, where it is applied from the inside to protect the colour from scratches and maintain the pristine exterior finish.
• Dark base for masking techniques and creating multi-layer decoration schemes.
• Details and separations in static models and figures when working on polycarbonate or compatible plastic parts.

Compatibility

The Tamiya PS range is specifically formulated for polycarbonate. Although it can be applied to other plastics, its strength lies precisely in this flexible and transparent material. For conventional plastic surfaces (static models, figures, dioramas), Tamiya offers its TS spray range or jar acrylic paints. There is no need to use a primer on clean and degreased polycarbonate, although careful cleaning of the piece before painting always improves the result.

Application Tips

• Pre-Cleaning: degrease the body with isopropyl alcohol or soapy water before painting. Any residue of grease or dust can ruin adhesion.
• Temperature: apply in an environment between approximately 15 and 25 °C. Cold thickens the propellant and heat can cause drips.
• Application Distance: keep the spray about 25-30 cm from the piece and apply in short, even passes.
• Thin Layers: better to apply two or three thin layers than one thick one. Allow to dry between layers.
• Application from the Inside: in transparent slot and RC bodies, always paint from the inside so that the exterior finish is protected by the polycarbonate itself.
• Masking: the PS5 Black is an excellent base for masking techniques. First apply the black, then the lighter colour on top after placing the masking tape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Tamiya PS5 Black be applied to conventional model plastic (polystyrene)?

The PS range is optimised for polycarbonate. It may work on polystyrene, but the results in adhesion and flexibility are not the same as with Tamiya's TS range, which is specifically designed for that material. For static models, we recommend the TS range or jar acrylic paints.

Do I need a primer before applying PS5 to a polycarbonate body?

No, it is not necessary if the piece is clean and degreased. Tamiya's PS formula adheres directly to clean polycarbonate. The key is to remove any grease residue before painting.

Can it be used as a black base for other paints in the PS range?

Yes, it is one of its most common applications. The PS5 acts as an opaque dark base onto which other more translucent PS colours can be applied or for masking techniques and colour separations.

How long should I let it dry between layers?

Tamiya recommends a drying time of approximately 20-30 minutes between layers under normal temperature and humidity conditions, although complete drying before handling the piece may take several hours.

Can I combine PS5 with other brands of polycarbonate paint like Kaleido?

In general, polycarbonate paints from different brands can be combined in the same decoration as long as each layer is well dried before applying the next. However, we always recommend doing a test on a scrap piece before working on the final body.

Tamiya PS5 Black (ref. TA86005) is a polycarbonate-specific spray paint from Tamiya's PS series, widely used in the RC car and slot car hobby for painting transparent lexan bodies. Its solid black formula delivers excellent adhesion, deep opaque coverage, and reliable flexibility on polycarbonate surfaces. Perfect as a standalone colour or as a base coat for masking techniques. A must-have in any modeller's or slot car enthusiast's paint rack.