Fixing Scaley toe-in

[DrumPhil]

Just added this lovely little guy to my stable, thanks to a sale at Cincy Slots. I figure since I just started driving a MINI Cooper Clubman as my 1:1 car, I should have a miniature Cooper as well. :)

However, the left rear wheel is out of alignment. Does anyone here know if these wheels are simply pressed on? Can I twist it off and press it back on, or will I break it tying to do that? It's not too bad, so I could just leave it.

Thanks.

[bobbyraz49]

I'd contact Scalextric .

[CrockettNZ]

hi
scaly wheels are pressed onto a knurled axle
it is not that uncommon to have one not on straight
as to fixing it i will depend on how bad it is
if it is only very slight and if you are still using the magnets you will get away with just truing the tires
it can be tricky getting them straight again
I don't like the idea of taking the wheels off as you can end up making it worst and it also can damage the inside hole on the rim
sometimes things are just best left alone

[DrumPhil]

Thanks Crockett. That's what I wanted to know. I thought if the wheels are easy to remove and re-set, I would try it. But it's not worth the risk of breaking one.

This car will only be driven for fun - not competitive racing. My track will be wood without any magnetic assistance, so however the car runs is what it is going to be. I'll probably true the wheels and tires a bit and call it done. Hopefully it won't be too bad.

[CrockettNZ]

[chappy]

If it turns out to be a real issue, you can use the hot water trick.
remove the tire and put the wheel and axle into hot water to soften it a bit, and then with gentle pressure straighten the wheel out. It may take several attempts , but you will immediately notice the improvement.
Try to figure out if one part is too far in, or too far out, and once softened or pliable, usea flat surface and gently apply pressure to get the wheel 90 degrees to the axle.
if it dosent cooperate, no harm done.
Bob

[Dangermouse]

Once you get the wheel straight you may find putting a slower motor in it will enhance the driving experience on wood with no magnet :)

[Abarth Mike]

Hot water but it is not getting the plastic soft enough to be pliable it is keeping where you need it while it cools slowly.

One of these might work? But only if the jaws are perfectly aligned.



I use an electric hot water dispenser about 98 deg. Put the water in a glass then...