Tire softening

[kevinthenerd]

I just pulled some rubber brake pads off of a bicycle and replaced them. There's a lot of rubber left on them, but they're hard from age. Is there any way to revive them, softening the rubber, with household chemicals?

The answer to this question would also be helpful for softening car tires for race use. (I know it's totally illegal.)

 

[sygyzy]

Why not just replace it? If it's worn/cracking/brittle, do you really want to ride on them. No offense, but don't be cheap and risk your life especially if we are talking a(n) (fairly) inexpensive investment.

 

[Scarpozzi]

I vote you replace them. I'm sure there is something you could try to soften them with chemically, but replacement pads are pretty cheap....should be under $10.

 

[kevinthenerd]

I'm more interested in using household chemicals for tire rubber softening, but this particular instance today brought the issue up, and I think I want to experiment with these things before I screw up a bigger investment. Besides, it's the back tires. I can stop a bike just as quickly with only front tires as I can with both because of the weight transfer to the front under heavy braking. You just have to be careful not to flip over the handle bars.

 

[DaShen]

Not any cheaper, but it will get the job done

Wouldn't some vinegar, water, and a microwave work okay as well?
The acid from the vinegar would break down the oxidized layers of rubber, while the microwave and water would heat the good layers. Microwave it for a second and see if that worked.

Maybe you can try that out and see.

Pine Tar Oil

Google is your friend

 

[jupiter57]

Any time there is a need to soften rubber, brake fluid does the trick!

 

[DaShen]

Originally posted by: jupiter57
Any time there is a need to soften rubber, brake fluid does the trick!

Really? hmmmm. Interesting.

 

[kevinthenerd]

Originally posted by: jupiter57
Any time there is a need to soften rubber, brake fluid does the trick!

I might have some laying around somewhere around here. I'd have to give it a shot. I think I'm gonna try the vinegar trick first, though. I think you're right about the acids.

 

[mercanucaribe]

Whatever you buy to soften the rubber will cost more than new brake pads.. which you already bought.