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what do I need to do exactly to convert tubeless ready rims into, errr, a tubeless setup??? Is it just a case of adding tubeless valves, or do I need to swap out the rim tape as well?
Often tape, valves, goo.
What wheels are they? Some do come with the tape. They normally say so though.
"Ready" just means that they are proper tubeless equipment but set up (for various reasons) for tubes.
It normally means the rims are taped but you need to set them up yourself.
If you buy tubeless ready wheels, then typically you will get the valves and maybe even the sealant in the box.
If you buy a complete bike with tubeless ready wheels then you be lucky to get either, but the rims should be taped.
I’d imagine the rims are probably taped already, but you’ll need to add tubeless valves and sealant. Plus check the tyres you have are also tubeless ready.
Would help if you put on a link or photon of the rims and the tape in there already.
I wouldn't assume "tubeless ready" means the rims are taped already.
I've had Prime wheels, Pacenti rimmed wheels, a disc TT wheel stated as tubeless and also some basic Bontrager TLR wheels that needed taping. On the other hand, I had some Novatec wheels and Mavic UST wheels supplied with tape pre-fitted.
So it could be valves, tape and sealant. Along with tubeless tyres.
And you'll only find out when you come to inflate but you might need some way of inflating the tyre super quick to get it to seat on the rim properly. A CO2 cannister will do it but get it wrong and it starts to become expensive. A dedicated tubeless inflator is a good investment but pricey upfront. A compressor also might be good enough. Track pump at the very least, but sometimes you just can't get the tyre to seat quick enough to stop the air just flowing out. It's quite hit and miss as to whether a track pump alone will do it.
Tubeless Compatible would be a far more suitable description considering how most are supplied.
All it means is that the rim bed is designed to work with tubeless tyres. Tend to feature taller and wider bead shelves (sometimes with a bead retaining hook for a more secure tyre fit) for a stable air tight seal.
A tubeless ready rim (unless sealed bed UST type) will clearly not be pre-taped, but a wheel built with the same rim may or may not be taped.