Tow cables for the masses!

[crockett]

The cheapest way to make realistic tow cables? We all have struggled with those molded unrealistic kit cables, and the aftermarket stuff is pretty expensive, so I came up with a workable and cheap alternative. For a few dollars, you'll have enough cable to last for hundreds of vehicles.

First: A trip to the LHS, Hobby Lobby and craft store/discount store to get the following items, I spent less than $8.00 USD:

Shipbuilder rope (which comes in several diameters) and electrical shrink tubing (which comes inseveral diameters, select the 1/8th tubing)




Second: Cut a section from the shrink tube ( the length is up to you) like so:



Third: Simply loop the end of the rope through the section of shrink tube:





Fourth: Apply heat to the shrink tube, and the cable shank will tightly close. Bingo!



Fifth: I like to dip my cables in a wash solution, and the drybrush with some SNJ powder:





Finally, you get this:





Remember, you can make variations on this basic technique and reproduce any style of cable. Good luck and have fun!

Steve Crockett

[charles]

Great method. Thanks.

[Bluecorsair]

I..........don't know what to say. Uhhh....AMAZING??
Well, let me put it this way, I am off to the hobby/craft store as soon as I post this msg. So, it is called "Shipbuilder rope" on the package?
No matter, i'm off.....WAit!! You say u got the rope at a LHS?? if so, then I can 4get it, I know mine doesn't have. I will look at the HobbyLobby craft store 4 the rope/string that looks like yours.

Thx a ton 4 this valuable technique!
Have fun,
Bill[/font]

[animal]

Fantastic suggestion. I will be running down to our local Lowe's and Hobby Town to get the stuff and start making some. Thanks for sharing.

[tigertankman]

Really kewl, Ill have to try that, it sounds really....imaginative, thanks for sharing!

[seanrgb]

I wish i saw this earlier
on my panther the tow cables snapped
well now i know what to do
cheers for a great tip

[cdntanker25]

that method is a great one steve, thanks for sharing mate!

[peglegrc]

I know this is a Old Post! But thought Id revive it a little.... I drink my morning Coffee, making the Coffee in my cup with a bag like a Tea Bag... "Folgers" puts them out for us Only One or Two cups of coffee a day people... The string that hold the Coffee bags to the little Tag are the perfect size and length for a Tow Cable, I used Crockett's shrink tubing idea and it Looks Super.... ..."RC" ..

[Bluecorsair]

Ya? hmm, ok, I will try that RC, sounds good to me. ;D