Heat Shrink Tubing - What size?

PaulB2005 · Posted: Fri Sep 07, 2007 8:56 am Post subject: Heat Shrink Tubing - What size?

I need to replace the heat shrink tubing on my antenna, and i don't really want to have to pull it out of the car.

Maplin stock as shown on this page: CLICK HERE

Can anyone advise which diameter would be best for resleeving the straight MCX plug on the end of the antenna lead - see CLICK HERE

Also can you shrink this tubing with a lighter / match? I know it says 90 degrees but again i don't really want to have to take it out of the car to do such a simple repair.

Tim Buxton · Posted: Fri Sep 07, 2007 9:01 am Post subject:

Most heatshrink can be reduced by using an extension lead and 'er indoors' hairdryer. It produces a better finish than a match/lighter, too. Failing that, a gas soldering iron with heatgun attachment.
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Tim

PaulB2005 · Posted: Fri Sep 07, 2007 9:03 am Post subject:

hairdryer - Ah. Just read the FAQ and they mention that too. Missus also has collection of straightening things that get very hot...... Laughing

She will be pleased...

Thanks.

aj2052 · Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2007 12:22 am Post subject:

The best size is just over the diameter of what you are covering, the longer you keep the heat on it the smaller it gets and also the wall gets thinner, you cannot use a match or lighter it needs a steady spread of heat for a nice smooth finish. i.e. heat or hair dryer bur hair dryer willl be slower.

PaulB2005 · Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2007 11:40 am Post subject:

Cheers.

Hair dryer and 5.0mm Heatshrink from maplin - Code BF89W worked great.

GPS_fan · Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2007 7:31 pm Post subject:

I think an important thing to remember is that the heatshrink has to pass over the connector and it's not just the diameter of the cable to consider.

Also if you have a hot air blower type paint stripper then that can also be used and may be quicker than a hair dryer - but make sure that you don't get it too close to the heatshrink or you might melt it
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Andy
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