No Metal Axle In The Kit

[steelhead26]

Hi Guys, Was just doing some work on my Labonte car and realized that instructions call for a metal axle. There is none in the box, not sure if it wasn't packaged or if I lost it. Just wanted to see if you guys have any tips or tricks if this has ever happened to any of you.

 

Thanks

Joe

[Renegade]

If its a Revell kit you can use their website to order a replacement.

[steelhead26]

Thanks Renegade, It's an AMT Ertl. Do u know if they are universal?

[Renegade]

Any metal axle will work as long as you have the right length. If you have one in the spares box just check the length and cut with diagonal cutters if too long.

[steelhead26]

Thanks Renegade, I started and abandoned an old chevy wagon years ago. May be able to jack an axle from that if it had them.

 

Thanks

Joe

[Em_Jay]

in some cases you can substitute with a piece of styrene rod.

[steelhead26]

Thanks Em-Jay, I was thinking of that as well. Even a straightening out a paper clip possibly. Glad I had that botched build laying around.

 

Thanks

Joe

[Foxer]

I've found brass tube works well. If it's a bit tight I'll drill the wheel out. If it's too loose, drill wheel out for next size up tube and slip the tube you started with in. Lately I seem to be replacing all wheel mounting with short pieces of brass, aluminum or plastic rod. Some combination work for putting any wheel on any axle, so you should be able to get something that works.

Edited February 15, 2016 by Foxer

[MrBuick]

I had a 55 Chevy Truck where the metal axle was too short. I ended up making one out of a kebab stick (basically a really long toothpick). I had to sand it down a bit and cut the ends to fit, but it cost me nothing since I had it sitting around and it's held up fine.

[steelhead26]

Never thought of that MrBuick, I do have a box of those somewhere. That would be a ton of sanding like you said.

[MrBuick]

Never thought of that MrBuick, I do have a box of those somewhere. That would be a ton of sanding like you said.

It did need some sanding, but it probably only took 10 minutes. I just took some 80 grit and wrapped it around the wood and spun it, then smoothed it out a bit when it was near the correct size. 

[DanR]

I've had this happen and was able to replace the metal axle with a plastic rod. Hollow out the wheels where the rod is inserted to accept the thickness of the plastic part, glue one side in place then slide it through and then glue it to the other wheel. It should be fine.

[JTalmage]

Someone here once told me there's a particular size of brass rod available at most good hobby shops... they sell it in like 3 or 4ft lengths... great for making axles out of. I'll have to get the size when I get home.

[modelcarcrazy]

i make my own out of metal coat hangers

[oldcarfan]

If it is the small diameter axle and you can't find one in another kit, you can buy brass rod at any hobby store. Just take one of the wheels with you and try different sizes. Worked for me!

[steelhead26]

All good ideas, The coat hanger never crossed my mind and hey are plentiful.

 

Thanks

Joe