I have used Formula V Traction Treatment on racing kart tires with
measurable positive results. The tires specified by the club were quite hard
even when new (55-56 on my durometer), and harden further after a few races
to durometer readings of about 58-59. I would apply the treatment for 3 days
with the last treatment two day before the race. To apply, I would just roll
on with a cheap paint roller, and then wrap the tires in plastic wrap. Next
day, unwrap, paint, and rewrap. This would usually cause a 4-6 point drop in
the durometer reading (depending on the track temp, kart setup, driving,
etc), and about .5 seconds per lap. The stuff worked well enough that one
had to be careful not to go too far as you would get DQd if you went below
54. Anyway, this treatment lasted for a full race weekend, but this was
sprint kart racing, so not a huge amount of track time or miles.
I have also heard that "Track Claw", or maybe it's "Tiger Claw" works well,
but I think it about $50+ a gallon.
I have also heard that 50/50 mixture of diesel fuel (I think it's #1? the
regular car stuff) and kerosene, applied as described above will do the same
thing as the more expensive alternatives, but I have never tried it.
Hope this helps,
Warren Chamberlain
PS Just remembered something else, there was some talk on the karting list
about possible health risks with the commercial brands, so gloves and
perhaps a respirator were strongly advised. FWIW
> ----------
> From: Douglas Wilson[SMTP:dwilson@engassoc.com]
> Sent: Wednesday, September 09, 1998 10:37 AM
> To: 'vintage-race@autox.team.net'
> Subject: Tire Treatment
>
> Has anyone had any experience with treatment (snake oil) for tires. Some
> of the Saturday night circle track guys around here have been touting this
> stuff. They claim that it is especially helpful for "older" race tires.
>
> Doug Wilson
>
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