Originally Posted by
bash bros
Scissors are the worst way if you want clean edges imo.
The best way is to score it with a razor, then snap all the extra off.
I always start with a nice sharp utility knife or exacto blade and go over it real carefully, then go over it once again as some of the spots will need to be a little deeper to get them to break cleanly.
Then just clean up the wheel wells and corners with a sanding drum and that's about it.
Nailed it!!
There are 3 things I hate about this hobby. Breaking in engines, gluing tires, and prepping, painting and finishing bodies. I got the gluing down. I pay people to do my engine break-ins, and I try to buy pre cut bodies every chance I get and pay someone to paint them ( probably why I run the same body for 3-4 years).
The last 2 major ones I did were SC bodies from AE. There is SOOOO much trimming that has to be done on them, I thought it was going to take forever. A buddy of mine explained this to me and I gave it a shot. OMFG it was one of the easiest body jobs I ever did and came out dang near perfect.
I used a semi dull knife blade (X-acto) to score the lines nice and light. Then went over it with a sharp knife 2 more times. The pieces just popped right off. Nice, smooth even lines all the way around.
Now when you get to engine and fuel tank holes, you can use a marker to draw out where the holes will be and use a body reamer to make pilot holes for your dremmel tool/ sanding drum...
Good luck.