The Beginner's Guide to Properly Gluing RC Tires

Few things are more frustrating in RC racing than watching a tire 'blow out' or peel off the rim mid-race. Properly gluing your RC tires is a non-negotiable step for any serious basher or racer. A solid glue job ensures maximum power transfer, consistent handling, and, most importantly, keeps your tires securely on the wheel even under high speeds and hard landings.

Gluing tires can seem intimidating, but with the right materials and technique, you'll be mounting like a pro in no time!

🛠️ Materials You'll Need

Before you start, gather these essential items:

1. RC Wheels and Tires: Ensure both are clean and dry.

2. High-Quality CA (Cyanoacrylate) Glue: The adhesive is the most important part. We recommend Bermco RC Parts QuickTime Tire Glue for its fast cure time, strong bond, and precision applicator.

   • Shop QuickTime Tire Glue

3. Applicator Tip/Nozzle: Most quality glues, like the QuickTime Tire Glue, come with a fine tip for precision.

4. Tire Bands/Rubber Bands: Used to hold the tire firmly against the rim while the glue cures.

5. Citrus Cleaner or Rubbing Alcohol: For cleaning the rim and tire bead (optional, but highly recommended).

6. Paper Towels or Lint-Free Cloth.

7. Ventilation: CA glue fumes can be strong—work in a well-ventilated area.

📝 Step-by-Step Gluing Process

Follow these steps for a perfect, race-ready bond:

Step 1: Prep and Clean

A clean surface is crucial for a strong bond.

• Clean the Seam: Use a small amount of citrus cleaner or rubbing alcohol on a paper towel to thoroughly clean the small gap where the tire meets the plastic rim. This removes mold release agents, dust, and oils that would prevent the glue from sticking. Let it dry completely.

• Mount the Tire: Fit the tire onto the wheel, ensuring the bead (the inner edge of the tire that meets the rim) is seated correctly and evenly around the entire circumference. Check the direction of the tire tread!

Step 2: Secure the Tire

Use tire bands or thick rubber bands to apply pressure to the tire and push the bead securely into the channel of the rim. This holds the tire in the correct position for gluing and prevents the bead from lifting.

Step 3: The Gluing Technique (The Secret to Success!)

This technique ensures the glue wicks (flows) perfectly along the tire bead.

1. Apply Glue: Start gluing one side first. Carefully lift the tire bead slightly away from the rim using your free hand or a small, dull tool.

2. Wick the Glue: Place the tip of your Bermco QuickTime Tire Glue applicator into the gap you created and apply a thin, consistent bead of glue. You don't need a lot! The glue should quickly "wick" inward, covering the entire bead area.

3. Seat the Bead: Once the glue is applied to a small section (about 1–2 inches), immediately release the tire bead and press it firmly against the rim for a few seconds. The tire band will hold the pressure.

4. Work Your Way Around: Continue this process—Lift, Glue, Press—in small sections until you have completed the entire side.

Step 4: Cure Time

1. Check for Gaps: Quickly inspect the bead to ensure the glue has sealed the entire circumference and hasn't wicked out onto the tire face.

2. Allow to Cure: Let the completed side cure for at least 5–10 minutes before attempting the second side. The QuickTime formula is fast, but patience ensures durability.

3. Repeat: Remove the tire bands and flip the wheel over. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 on the second side.

4. Final Cure: Once both sides are complete, let the entire assembly cure for at least 30 minutes before handling, and ideally, 24 hours before racing.

A properly glued tire is a lasting investment in performance. Upgrade your materials with Bermco RC Parts QuickTime Tire Glue and ensure your next run is blow-out free!