It seems almost impossible to buy a slot car equipped with plastic wheels that doesn't have at least one wheel that is 'out of round', 'off centre' or suffering from some other defect that prevents the wheels from running truly on the track. For some reason, intentional or unintentional, it seems more likely that a defective wheel will be fitted to the rear axle where an adverse effect on performance and handling will be most noticeable.
Hardly any brand is exempt from this criticism ... at present I am trying to set up Carrera Mustang and Ford Torino, a Fly Daytona prototype, a Ninco Ford Sierra and a Pioneer Mustang, among others. The quality of the cars in regard to general appearance and detail is outstanding so why is it that one of the most critical factors affecting performance (the 'trueness' of the wheels) is so poor in many slot cars.
So my question to fellow enthusiasts is "Does anyone have tips on how to repair or refurbish plastic wheels so that they will run as truly as their aluminium counterparts?"
Some might suggest retro-fitting with aluminium items. As well as being expensive this can at times being impractical as it relies on being able to buy wheels of the correct size and acquiring wheel inserts that maintain the appearance of the original wheels.
Suggestions would be welcome.