I'm preparing to build a Douglas Dolphin amphibian, but can't find any narrow 3" diameter tires for it. Wheels are no problem, since I've got a lathe, but tires are another matter. I've looked at Sullivan, DuBro and BVM, but none appear narrow enough. They need to be about 5/8" (16mm). Any ideas, anyone?
Narrow tires for golden age planes?
Sep 29, 2007
7 Replies
Go here:
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and scroll down to Vintage Wheels.
Try this site:
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luck -- Lyman
I made them from automobile fuel line tubing for my Se5a. Just wrap it around the wheel and glue the seam. Works perfectly and has held up for years.
I made the wheels also. Here's a photo:
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Thanks, you two. Alas, the "sausage tube" WW I tire isn't appropriate for a 1930s plane. I need a taller sidewall. Robart scale wheels come close, but are a bit too wide.
How about large O rings available for commercial pump supply houses.
Red S.
Did you not look at the rest of the Williams Bros. line?
If you could fine a thick or solid rubber ring of the right size ( O rigs for plumbing come to mind) you could flatten the side by touching it to a belt sander.
If that didn't work...how about a tube (tubing) that is stuffed with a flat-sided plastic "noodle"? Cut the "noodle" out of any thick, flat plastic with two hole saws of appropriate sizes...
You'd have to cut the flat-sided ring and then slip the tubing over it. If the tubing was of a thin/light enough composition, it could probably be done.
regards, Rich
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