Shrink tubing?

Randy Clark Mar 28, 2022

  1. Randy Clark

    Randy Clark TrainBoard Member

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    Has anyone tried shrink tubing for traction tires? I have Bull Frog Snot but the application is hit and miss.
     
  2. Hardcoaler

    Hardcoaler TrainBoard Member

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    Interesting idea Randy. My only experience is with the small diameter stuff and when it cools, it's hard and is slick, so I'm not sure how well it would work. I'm not sure if the heating and cooling process is uniform throughout its circumference. That would be important, else a driver would be out of round. I guess you could always give it a shot and could then cut it away if things didn't work out.
     
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  3. CSX Robert

    CSX Robert TrainBoard Member

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    It varies, bust most of the heat shrink tubing I've used does stay soft when shrunk. I would think the hardest part would be cutting something so narrow to a consistent width. I haven't bought from them yet, but I came across a source for various N-Scale traction tire sizes:
    https://lovetrainhobbies.com/N-scal...action-tires-lovetrain-hobbies-mm-N-MAIN.html
     
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  4. Inkaneer

    Inkaneer TrainBoard Member

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    I recall seeing something about this some years ago on another forum. I can't recall the reason behind it but the conclusion was it was not a good idea. Haven't heard anything about it since nor have I seen anything about Bullfrog Snot which was once ballyhooed as the panacea for traction problems.
     
  5. Doug Gosha

    Doug Gosha TrainBoard Member

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    I have bought some LoveTrain tires and they are excellent.

    Be careful shrinking tube onto a driver as you wouldn't want to damage any surrounding plastic with heat. Plastic centers of the drivers, for instance.

    Bullfrog Snot is OK but it would be better if it were thinner so it would be easier to apply without flying all over the place.

    Doug
     
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  6. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    This was the first thought which crossed my mind. :eek::(
     
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  7. Donstaff

    Donstaff TrainBoard Member

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    I haven't tried them yet either, but for the price and specification selection available, if the shipping charge is reasonable, I'd say that the ones listed in the link above is a no brainer. Who needs the hassle?
     
  8. tonkphilip

    tonkphilip TrainBoard Member

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  9. Doug Gosha

    Doug Gosha TrainBoard Member

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    I said they are excellent.

    Doug
     
  10. Randy Clark

    Randy Clark TrainBoard Member

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    Shrink tubing does work if you get the correct diameter tubing. I made a pair just for grins while I waited for my Kato tires to get here.
     

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