Question: Why Do RC Tires Need to Be Glued to the Rims?
Many RC cars and trucks have three-part wheels: wheel or rim, foam tire inserts, and foam, rubber, or plastic tires. Although the parts all fit together nicely, glue helps keep the inserts inside and the tires on the rim.
Answer: The powerful, high torque motors and engines in hobby-grade electric and nitro RC vehicles can cause the tires to separate from the rims. Gluing the tires to the rims keeps your tires from falling off during high speed racing, off-roading, sharp turns, sudden stops, and other maneuvers. Pretty much a must-do for hobby-grade vehicles, most toy-grade motors don't have enough power to cause the tires to come off the rims so gluing isn't necessary.
You could use Superglue or Krazy Glue (trademarks for a type of CA or Cyanoacrylate glue) in a pinch but there are specifically formulated CA glues for gluing tires that is sold in RC hobby shops. You want to use a fast-drying glue that stays flexible, doesn't eat through the plastic/rubber parts, and provides good bonding between the rim and the tire bead (the part of the tire where you put the glue).
How to Glue Tires
Although the basics are the same, some RC owners and RC manufacturers advocate different tire-gluing methods. You'll need to find the method that works best for you, your RC vehicle, and the way you operate your RC. Here are some tutorials on gluing tires:- Gluing Tires - A NitroHouse Video
This tire gluing tutorial starts with drilling holes in the wheel. There's also sanding and tire banding involved. Features clear instructions and visuals.
- Tire gluing -- the right way!
Gary Katzer provides 4 illustrated steps for preparing and gluing your tires in this RC Car Action tutorial.
- Gluing tires like a pro
Writing for RC Driver Magazine, Erich Reichert describes and illustrates 9 steps for gluing tires.
- How to glue tires
This reader-submitted tutorial in the Ultimate RC forums includes tips on foam inserts as well as how to glue the tires to the rims.
