1.9 foam and weight advice please

[Holdencars]

I've just put on 1.9 super swampers on vanquish wheels without air holes. I didn't install the foams - I made sure the tyre pressure was equalised then tightened the beadlocks without squeezing any air out of the tyres.

It seems great climbing on rock and has loads of traction with the perfecct amount of tyre distortion.
Axial SCX10 on Rocks with Super Swampers - YouTube

Whereas on steep dirt hill climbs which is what I prefer to drive I think I need to fit the wheel weights I have.
Axial SCX10 at Gravity Hill - YouTube

My question is when I fit the wheel weights, should I also put the foams back in to support and seat the weights in place. I don't want to lose any of the flex the tyres currently have.

[Armistice]

How's sidehilling? Seems like it'd suck without the foams supporting the tires

[monkeymagic9]

I'd try it (I know it's a lot of screws just to try) if you like the super softness, maybe cut your old foams into a 6 point star and load up the weight and see if it doesn't end up about the same.

[Holdencars]

Well I tried with both the foams and weights and hated it - no grip at all on rock or dirt. Huge step backwards - foams causing the problem, the tyres are too stiff / no flex at all.

I've removed the foams and left the weights in - just taped them with electrical tape.
At the same time I re-oiled the shocks (1 was totally empty) and installed my lift kit in the front, lowering the front shock top mounts 10mm.
The front was noticeably lower than the rear. Was going to lift the rear but with just the front lift it sits almost level.

Huge improvement all round - grip, climbing, side hilling. Very happy now!
Will put up some Youtube clips here over the next day or so