For typical work on locomotive electronics, do you prefer heat shrink tubing with a 2:1 shrink ratio or a 3:1 ratio? Also, do you like to use the type with adhesive inside the tubing?
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I use the 2:1 shrink stuff, it works fine. Do NOT use the stuff with the adhesive, that's for waterproof connections, but it's a mess if you have to take it off. You certainly don't need it for anything you'd do around your trains. 3:1 shrink is more scarce and expensive, and I've never felt the need to use it.
John, that’s very helpful. Thank you!
2:1 and not adhesive. I bought most of it in bulk at ham Fests, lots less expensive than bubble packs in auto stores.
The best deal on a near lifetime supply search ebay for, "55M Polyolefin Assorted Heat Shrink Tubing" $14 total tax and shipping for 55M that's around 180'. Unless your doing commercial work you will never need to order again. Just placed my second order. Four years ago it was $9 j
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That wouldn't be a lifetime assortment for me, I buy the smaller sizes up to around 1/8" in 100 foot rolls. I also buy the 2" stuff in 100 foot rolls, I use that for the Super-Chuffer kits as well as the YLB.
If it's the second order after 4 years, a lifetime is 4 years
@cjack posted:If it's the second order after 4 years, a lifetime is 4 years
Short lifetime, I better order a bigger roll!
I use shrink tubing infrequently in spirts, so it's nice to have it on-hand. I use 2:1 that comes in pre-cut 2 inch lengths. Packaged in a plastic box with a significant selection of diameters. It's inexpensive. I shrink it with my wife's hair dryer.
@gunrunnerjohn posted:Short lifetime, I better order a bigger roll!
"Commercial" Doing train repair free now days John? If So, I better gather up some sturdy boxes ! I live on a street with three widows anything that breaks ends up at my house. I go through a lot of shrink wrap and a lot of sizes and that does not include the adhesive type I use on boats. Not to mention nearing forty TMCC/DCS conversions to my pile of trains. Most on the forum would never use up the bundle in that ad. GEEEEZ, never give a hound something to billow about. j