R/C Tips & Tricks
Wheels & Tyres
- Checking Tires
Those simple things that we take for granted can often come back to bite us on the butt. Whether
you’re a sedan racer or an off-roader, the next time you put your car or truck down on the dirt or
asphalt be sure to check that your tires are still glued on. That’s right. Often times the CA glue we
use to mount tires can break or come loose. You might not notice this until your rear tire passes your
car on the straightaway. Even if only a small area has come loose, it can have an adverse effect on
your car’s performance. If you see that the glue on your tire has come undone, place a small drop of
CA between the tire and rim. You can wrap some heavy-duty rubber bands around the tire to hold it
in place until the glue dries.
- You’re Soaking in it
Have you ever bought a new kit that used three-piece wheels? Remember what a hassle it was to
get the tires on those wheels? Any one who has had to perform this task knows it can be tough. To
make your life easier try assembling those wheels and tires over a sink or bucket of soapy water.
That’s right, just as if you were about to do the dishes. Rinse the tires and wheels in the soapy water
and assemble them just like the instructions tell you. The soap acts as a lubricant and dries easily
without leaving a residue or mess.
- Tire Compound Tip
If you use a traction compound like Trinity’s Buggy Grip or Team Associated’s Traction Action, then
you know how much of the compound gets wasted every time you spray it on your tires. Usually, only
half of the spray gets on your tires. The other half gets on your car’s body or, even worse, in your
lungs. Instead of using the spray bottle, get a soft-bristled toothbrush. When you are ready to apply
the compound, simply dip the brush in the compound and brush it on your tires. When you’re done,
shake the excess compound that is still left on the brush into the bottle. This method will help you to
conserve compound, to keep your body free of stains, to distribute the compound more evenly over
the tire, and to cut down on fumes.
- KIT BUILDING - Tyres
Tires - When gluing tires on to rims be very careful not to screw up. Keeping your tires balanced is
very important. Use only the necessary amount of glue. Also, before you glue them on to the rims,
take the time to clean the plastic rims off with something like non-acetone finger nail polish remover.
This is very important because there is an oil like substance that the factories put on the rims to take
them out of the mould. If this stuff isn’t removed, the glue will not stick as strongly.
- Extra Traction
Shoe Goo can be used on bald tires to get some extra traction; you can make you own tread!
- Tyre Balancing
When balancing tires, try using hot glue instead of tape. This way it can’t fly off in a race. If you apply
too much, it will still be warm enough to take a little off. It can also be applied in spots where tape
cannot be.
- Tyre Venting
Instead of cutting a hole in the tire for venting, drill a small hole in the wheel itself so you don’t ruin
the tires.
And Finally...
- The Final and Most Important
Have Fun!
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