Welcome, Norm

I can't offer any advice on your project; but I'm sure that others will help.

MichaelG.

Hello Norman,

I think Norman is trying to track down an ME article on making tyres. I think this was part of a series by Alex du Pre. Can anyone track down the right issue?

Neil

Gerald Wingrove wrote a short series in ME way back, probably in the '70's. He outlined his method of making tyres First of all a mould with the tread pattern milled in, followed by casting with, IIRC, Devcon Flexane, but there are alternative urethane rubbers.

I think there was also another series by someone who made a lorry. In this case, the choice of scale etc. was dictated by acquiring some miniature tyres made by a major manufacturer as advertising give-aways.

Really depends on what Norman means by "not so small" could be 2" scale in which case cast your own or if larger like some of the 6" Fodens about then they use Mini tyres.

If casting your own I would suggest taking a look at some of the RC Plant and machinery and RC Truck sites for more upto date methods than Gerald Wingrove. There are also a lot of Lorry tyres available if it is just going to be a showcase model.

Edited By JasonB on 12/11/2017 10:24:08

Norman is that 9-10" long or 9-10" to the Ft, wheel size or OD of tyre?

Edited By JasonB on 13/11/2017 07:22:47

There is useful stuff about full-size steel tyres in 'The Wheelwrights Shop' by George Sturt (1923 with reprints much later). The process modifications for making smaller versions would depend on how much smaller, of course.

If it is rubber tyres that you need, it will depend on the level of detail. If tread details are not important, an O-ring would be a good start. Otherwise you may be faced with making a mould and casting your own using a silicone or polyurethane compound. I would suggest that you avoid real inflatable model tyres.

It all depends on what you seek, and whether the model (etc) will need to be exhibition standard, or a knock-about toy, or something in between. And it also depends on what facilities you have and even where you live.

Regards, Tim

Norman – I have 4 off pneumatic tyred wheels, solid disc type which are (I think) about the size you are considering. I'll let you know the actual size tomorrow – too cold to venture out tonight!!

rgds

Bill

Norman – apologies for the delay. Have checked the wheels and memory was at fault ; they are, in fact, 15" diameter and 4" wide – photos attached. However, if the 10" diameter is essential, have you considered these? https://www.ebay.co.uk/p/4-X-10-Black-Heavy-Duty-Pneumatic-Wheel-Tyre-With-Rim-Cart-Trolley-Wheelbarrow/675595437?iid=371892404805.

rgds

Bill