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Plating slot car racer parts

Q. I race 1/64 scale slot cars as a hobby. In some classes we run custom wound armatures that cost between $35 and $60. The armature commutators (copper) wear with use. We can recut the comms a couple times, but then the remaining copper is too thin for a recut, and the expensive arm is junk. Is it possible to copper plate the commutator, building up around .005 - .010" of copper? And if so, will the plating be able to be cut on a lathe without chipping?

Thanks,

John Pileggi
- Holden, Massachusetts
2002

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A. Hi John,
To answer your question theoretically, yes it is no real problem to plate copper to that thickness and get good adhesion. But to answer it practically, that's a pretty thick plating and replating might not cost less than a new commutator. If you are an avid hobbyist you could get a brush plating ⇦ huh? setup and perhaps replate thinner but more frequently.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

Q. Thanks Ted. Replacing the comm with a new one is not really a viable option since successfully desoldering the wires from the existing comm is extremely difficult. Where could I obtain a brush plating setup? Thanks.

John Pileggi [returning]
- Holden, Massachusetts

A. I believe that Gold Touch [a finishing.com supporting advertiser] can supply what you need, or search google for 'brush plating equipment'.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

Q. Ted,

These comms segments are only around 1/8" x 1/8" in size. Do they make brush plating systems small enough? I've seen the pen plating systems which might be more appropriate, but film build appears to be very light?

Thanks,

John Pileggi [returning]
- Holden, Massachusetts

A. "Brush plater" / "pen plater" / "tampon plater" is just semantics, John. You can get a convenient size stylus and the plating solution from any supplier. Good luck!

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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