Loc-Tite traction tire substitution

[Firelock76]

Thanks rrswede, that's EXACTLY what I was looking for!  Thanks again!

Wayne

[rrswede]

Pardon the earlier response. The following is the post I read.

Replacing engine tires with Silicone.

The product you want for this project is Silicone Sealant, not caulk.  The brand I have is Loctite, but you may find other manufacturer's such as G.E..

First arrange to have a transformer at your workbench, a soft cradle for your engine to be set in upside down, and some wires with alligator clips, so that you can connect your engine to the transformer and run it slowly while it is upside down. Before you do this, if it is a command engine, turn down the sound, and turn off the smoke unit, while you have it on the track.  It is also a good idea to remove the brakes as they are close to the wheel and can get smeared with the silicone.

With the engine upside down in the cradle, get the wheels turning slowly, and clean the tire groove with your favorite solvent.  I use denatured alcohol and Q-Tips.  Caution: if you use a Q-Tip, keep it away from the gears near the wheels.  If you touch a Q-Tip to the gears it will pull the fibers into the gears and jamb the engine to a stop quickly.  If this happens you have to remove the engine's shell and turn the flywheel backwards by hand to get the fibers out.

Once the tire groove is clean, and dry, squeeze a small amount of the Silicone into the groove while the wheel is turning.  Next, I prefer to use a squared off Popsicle stick, or tongue depressor, like a  putty knife action to press the silicone into the groove and remove the excess. Then quit and let it dry overnight.  It doesn't have to be perfectly neat at this point.

Next day, use an Xacto knife to trim off any excess rubber while the wheel is turning, or start and stop it if it is easier for you.

Viola!  You're done.

Dennis Bracey

4/13/09

 

 

Swede

[rrswede]

I was not able to locate the post you were referring to, but do remember it. The responder indicated he used Lok-Tite brand silicone caulk, and I think he indicated it was purchased at Lowe's. I recently used GE brand silicone caulk as a traction tire substitute and it is holding up perfectly, so far.

Good luck

[Firelock76]

Thanks very much for the link Rob, but "Bullfrog Snot"  wasn't what I was looking for.  I have heard about it though.  Thanks again!

[ADCX Rob]

http://cs.trains.com/ctt/f/95/p/201643/2204018.aspx#2204018

[Firelock76]

Hi everyone!  Listen, a few weeks ago someone on this site sugggested using Loc-Tite as a traction tire substitute.  I don't remember what discussion thread it was under or what particular type of Loc-Tite was suggested.  Anyone remember at all?  Thanks in advance!