RPM wheels are intentionally molded without vent holes. We believe the best location for vent holes is in the tire, not the wheel.
Why Vent the Tire Instead of the Wheel?
RC vehicles are often driven through dirt, dust, rocks, mud, grass and water. If vent holes are located in the wheel, debris and moisture can easily enter the tire but have no practical way to escape once the tire is glued in place.
When vent holes are placed in the tire instead, centrifugal force naturally helps expel dirt and water as the tire rotates. This helps keep the tire cleaner and reduces the chance of trapped moisture or debris.
For this reason, RPM recommends making three evenly spaced vent holes around the center of the tire tread. Each hole should be approximately 1/8″ (3 mm) or smaller. The holes can be made with a hobby knife, rotary tool, leather punch, or another suitable cutting tool. Whenever possible, make the vent holes before gluing the tires to the wheels.
An added benefit is that modifying the tire instead of the wheel eliminates the possibility of accidentally damaging the wheel and affecting your RPM breakage warranty.
Safety Reminder: Always use appropriate safety precautions when working with sharp tools or power tools.
If You Choose to Vent the Wheel
If you prefer to place vent holes in the wheel, drill them before mounting the tire.
We recommend:
- A maximum hole size of 1/8″ (3 mm) for most wheels.
- A maximum hole size of 3/32″ (2.5 mm) for 1/18-scale wheels.
- No more than three vent holes per wheel.
Carefully choose a location near the center of the wheel that will not interfere with the spokes, wheel hex, drive pin area or any other structural feature. Before drilling, mark each location with a marker and verify that the hole will not weaken or damage the wheel.
Use a properly sized drill bit and secure the wheel before drilling. Always work on a stable surface and wear appropriate eye protection.
Please note: Damage caused by drilling into structural areas of the wheel is not covered under RPM‘s breakage warranty.
Once the vent holes are complete, mount your tires and you’re ready to hit the track or trail!