RC (Radio Controlled) vehicles are extremely popular due to their real-world mechanics and physics offered in a pocket-sized package. High-speed races, complex tracks, and thrilling maneuvers lend themselves to substantial wear and tear on RC tires. That’s where the right adhesive comes into play – it helps keep the tires intact, ensuring a smooth racing experience. In this detailed article, we’ll be discussing the creme-de-la-creme of glues for RC tires, lending our first-hand experiences, assessing the pros and cons, and guiding you towards making the perfect purchase.
Considerations When Choosing Glue for RC Tires
Before we delve into the reviews, it’s prudent to appreciate that not every adhesive is created equal. Therefore, several aspects come into consideration when selecting the best glue for RC tires, such as adhesive strength, drying time, longevity, ease of application, and price. Let’s dive into these critical determinants:
Adhesive Strength
This factor determines how well the glue can hold the tires to the wheel rim under intense pressure and high speeds.
Drying Time
Quick-drying adhesives save time during the tire installation process and strengthen the bond almost instantaneously, which is vital during a race.
Longevity
Good adhesive should withstand the test of time. It should maintain its bonding capacity, even under extreme conditions for an extended period.
Ease of Application
The glue should be easy to apply, with a finely pointed tip that ensures accuracy and a clean job.
Price
Economical options that deliver excellent performance are always a win-win solution.
Now that we are aware of the essential factors let’s break down the best glue options available for RC tires.
Top Glue Options for RC Tires
1. Bob Smith Industries BSI-130 Ultra-Cure Tire Glue
This adhesive is known for its high-quality bonding strength. In my personal experience, I found the BSI-130 to be incredibly reliable. The longevity and instant drying capacity had me glued (pun intended) to this adhesive for most of my RC tire replacements. However, I faced challenges while applying the glue due to the slightly bulky design of the applicator, which sometimes led to messy results.
Pros:
– Excellent bonding strength
– Quick drying
– Long-lasting
Cons:
– Bulky applicator
2. Dynamite DYN2002 CA Glue
The Dynamite DYN2002 is another incredible adhesive for RC tires. It is lightweight, easy to apply, and provides powerful bonding strength. I particularly appreciated the fine applicator tip, but at high speeds, I found its bonding strength slightly less reliable than the Bob Smith Industries BSI-130.
Pros:
– Easy to apply
– Good bond strength
– Economical
Cons:
– Not as potent at extreme speeds
3. Team Associated 1596 Factory Team Tire Adhesive
This adhesive is loved in the RC community for its excellent strength and longevity. After trying it on my RC vehicle, Team Associated 1596 indeed lived up to its reputation. The bonding strength was phenomenal even at high speeds, and the easy application was a bonus. However, it came at a higher price tag compared to the other adhesives on my list, which could be a potential limitation for hobbyists on a budget.
Pros:
– Fantastic bond strength
– Easy to apply
– Long-lasting
Cons:
– Relatively expensive
Conclusion
So, there you have it – a comprehensive take on the top glues for RC tires that I have used and thoroughly assessed over time. As an arma RC hobbyist, I’ve tested out many different types on various race days, configurations, and environments. Each glue had its unique strengths, and all performed admirably, offering excellent strength, quick drying times, and excellent longevity – attributes that every RC enthusiast yearns for in a tire adhesive. Your budget, preference, and specific usage scenario will ultimately determine your ideal choice. Here’s to exciting races with perfectly glued tires!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Gorilla Glue work on RC tires?
Yes, Gorilla Glue can be used on RC tires. Gorilla Glue is a versatile adhesive that forms a strong bond between different materials, including rubber. However, it is important to note that Gorilla Glue expands as it dries, so it should be used sparingly and with caution when applying to RC tires.
2. Can I use super glue on RC tires?
Yes, super glue can be used on RC tires, but it may not be the best option. Super glue, also known as cyanoacrylate adhesive, is a fast-drying glue that forms a strong bond. While it can provide a temporary fix for RC tires, it may not withstand the stress and strain during intense RC vehicle use. It is recommended to use a specialized RC tire glue for a more reliable and durable bond.
3. How do you glue Pro Line RC tires?
To glue Pro Line RC tires, follow these steps:
1. Clean the tire’s sidewall and the wheel surface where the tire will be mounted.
2. Apply a small amount of specialized RC tire glue to the wheel surface.
3. Spread the glue evenly with a toothpick or glue applicator, covering the area where the tire bead will make contact.
4. Carefully stretch the tire over the wheel, ensuring the bead is properly seated on the glued surface.
5. Apply gentle pressure to the tire across the entire circumference, pushing it firmly into the glued area.
6. Leave the glued tire on a flat surface for at least 24 hours to allow the adhesive to fully cure.
7. Repeat the process for all remaining RC tires, ensuring consistent application and drying time for each.
4. What is the best glue for RC tires?
The best glue for RC tires is a specialized RC tire glue, designed specifically for bonding rubber to various surfaces, including wheels. These glues are formulated to provide maximum adhesion strength while withstanding the demands of the RC vehicle’s performance. Examples of popular RC tire glues include Pro-Line PRO-MT 1:10 Monster Truck Tire Glue and Traxxas Ultra Premium Tire Glue.
5. Can I use regular adhesive on RC tires?
Regular adhesives or household glues are generally not recommended for RC tires. These glues are often not designed to bond rubber effectively or withstand the stress and strains of RC vehicle use. Using regular adhesive can result in a weak bond that may fail during RC vehicle operation. It is best to choose a specialized RC tire glue for optimal results.
6. How long does it take for RC tire glue to dry?
The drying time of RC tire glue can vary depending on the brand and specific product used. On average, most specialized RC tire glues require at least 24 hours to fully cure. However, it is always recommended to check the product instructions for the specific drying time guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
7. Can I re-glue RC tires?
Yes, RC tires can be re-glued if the previous bond has failed or if you wish to change tires or wheels. To re-glue RC tires, you need to remove the old adhesive by carefully peeling it off or using an adhesive remover. It is important to thoroughly clean the tire and wheel surface before applying a new layer of glue. Follow the same steps as mentioned earlier for gluing RC tires, ensuring proper application and drying time.
8. Can I use CA debonder to remove RC tire glue?
CA (cyanoacrylate) debonder can dissolve and remove super glue, but it may not be as effective on specialized RC tire glues. It is always recommended to use adhesive removers specifically designed for the type of glue being used. These removers are formulated to break down and remove the adhesive without damaging the tire or wheel surface.
9. Is there any alternative to gluing RC tires?
Yes, an alternative to gluing RC tires is the use of beadlock wheels. Beadlock wheels have a ring that clamps the tire bead to the wheel, eliminating the need for glue. This allows for easier tire swapping or replacement without the hassle of removing old glue. However, beadlock wheels may add some weight to the RC vehicle and may not be suitable for all types of RC racing or bashing.
10. How can I remove excess glue from RC tires?
If you have excess glue on RC tires, you can carefully use a sharp hobby knife or a small plastic scraper to gently scrape off the excess glue. Take extra care to avoid damaging the tire or scoring the wheel surface. It is important to remove excess glue before it fully dries to ensure a clean and smooth finish.
