Gluing detached tires back onto RC car wheels is crucial for getting your vehicle race-ready. With so many tire glue options available, choosing the right adhesive can be confusing. This guide will review top-rated RC tire glues based on expert recommendations, explain proper application techniques, and help you avoid common mistakes.
Table of Contents
Introduction
RC racing puts incredible strain on tires, with the centrifugal forces of up to 30,000 RPMs constantly threatening to detach tires from wheels. When tire slippage or blowouts occur, having the right glue on hand for quick repairs is essential. However, not all adhesives are suited for the flexibility and high-heat durability needed in RC applications.
By selecting a purpose-made RC tire glue and applying it properly, you can securely re-bond detached tires in no time. Heeding experts’ recommendations, along with proper procedures, will get your RC back out on the track quickly.
Understanding Tire Glues
The most common dedicated RC tire glue is cyanoacrylate, better known as “super glue.” When formulated specifically for rubber and RC use, cyanoacrylate adhesives provide exceptional bonding power yet remain somewhat flexible after drying. This gives the resistance needed for high RPMs.
Ideal properties in an RC tire glue include:
- High bond strength to hold tire against centrifugal forces
- Flexibility when cured to handle track impacts
- Quick drying time to reduce down time
- Medium viscosity to avoid running when applied
- Heat resistance up to 150°F from motor and friction
Not all super glues are created equal. So turning to purpose-made formulations tested by RC experts is wise.
Top Picks for RC Tire Glues
Here are five top-recommended RC tire glues based on reviews and input from experienced RC enthusiasts and YouTube repair gurus:
1. Bob Smith Industries RC56 CA Tire Glue
The de facto standard in RC tire adhesives, Bob Smith RC56 provides extremely strong bonds while resisting high RPM heat. It dries quickly in just 30 seconds with enough flexibility to handle impacts. The medium viscosity makes application easy.
“RC56 is the only glue I trust for foam and rubber RC tires. Holds up to bashing and performs!” – RCTech Forum User
2. Hot Racing REC Super Glue
This cyanoacrylate glue comes highly recommended from RC reviewers for its thick viscosity, rubber bonding power, and quick 30 second cure time. The REC glue is specially thickened to avoid running when applied to vertical sidewalls.
“Stays put on application and dries fast. The best CA glue alternative to Bob Smith RC56.” – RC Informer YouTube Channel
3. HobbyPartz Pro CA Tire Glue
An affordable 2oz CA glue designed for RC tire use. It resist running when applied while providing strong flexible bonds. The thin applicator tip allows precision glue delivery. Sets in approximately 1 minute.
“You can’t beat the price for a hobby-specific CA glue. I use Pro CA for all my repairs.” – RCTech Forum User
4. Gorilla Super Glue Gel
While not RC specific, Gorilla’s popular rubber-safe super glue gel works well according to enthusiasts. The thicker gel consistency makes application easy on vertical surfaces. It bonds rubber strongly while resisting impacts. Sets in just 30-60 seconds.
“Don’t overpay for “special” RC tire glues. Gorilla gel works incredibly.” – RC Driver Magazine
5. Permabond Cyanoacrylate Adhesive #106
This thin viscosity cyanoacrylate glue quickly wicks into damaged areas for maximum bonding power. It provides high heat resistance up to 300°F while bonding in 5-10 seconds. Ideal for porous foam RC tires.
“Permabond CA soaks right into foam tires for securing split seams and chunks.” – RCTech Forum User
Application Techniques
Once you’ve selected an appropriate tire glue, proper application is key for repairs that withstand punishment:
- Clean and roughen the bonding surfaces for increased grip. Remove any old glue residue.
- Prep the glue applicator tip by wiping with alcohol to avoid clogging.
- Rotate the tire slowly while applying a thin bead of glue directly onto the sidewall just above the wheel lip.
- Quickly position the detached tire section back onto the rim so the glue makes contact before curing. Continue slowly rotating.
- Once the initial bond takes hold, add 2-3 more thin glue layers on both the inside and outside sidewall for reinforcement.
- After curing completely, add high RPM-resistant silicone sealant around the tire bead for an airtight interior seal.
Applying multiple thin glue coats ensures maximum strength to withstand potholes, jumps, and high speeds without detachment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When gluing RC tires, there are some errors to be aware of:
- Using poor quality household super glues that lack bonding power or flexibility.
- Applying excess glue that beads up and fails to penetrate bonding surfaces.
- Positioning the tire incorrectly before the glue sets, reducing contact area.
- Failing to roughen smooth surfaces first for increased glue grip.
- Not properly cleaning surfaces of contaminants like dirt and old glue residue.
- Impatience leading to wheels sent at high RPM before glue fully cures.
- Neglecting to add silicone bead sealant after gluing for interior air retention.
Double check proper application procedures and allow the full recommended cure time for repairs that don’t fail immediately when racing your RC.
Safety and Precautions
Super glues and cyanoacrylates require safe handling:
- Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling fumes.
- Wear eye protection in case of splashes or drips.
- Use tools like clamps and stands to avoid skin contact with fresh glue.
- Keep glue away from children. Never ingest. Seek medical help if accidentally bonded.
Exercise common sense and read the manufacturer safety precautions when using tire glues. Have fun repairing and getting back to RC racing safely!
Conclusion
Choosing the right RC tire glue and applying it properly makes fixing popped-off or damaged tires quick and easy. Look for hobby-specific cyanoacrylate glues with rubber-bonding abilities. Follow application best practices for repairs that withstand intense track use.
While household super glues work in a pinch, purpose-made RC tire glues like Bob Smith RC56 provide unmatched bonding power for holding your tires on even at extreme RPMs. With the right adhesive and technique, you’ll have your RC racer back up and running fast.
References
[1] “Best Glue for RC Car Tires” by RC Informer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzkxomTo174
[2] “Tire Glue Suggestions” discussion – https://www.rctech.net/forum/electric-off-road/687789-tire-glue-suggestions.html