Adding Tin to the mix

[bennadatto]

All,

I've started casting some wheel weights, but am thinking about adding some 50/50 bar solder to the mix. I'm getting ok boolits with just the wheel weights, but I think my mix would benefit (better fillout etc) if I tossed in some tin.

My questions are where does one find bar solder, and if 50/50 solder is unavailable, would there be any negatives to tossing in some pure tin?

Thanks!!!

[docone31]

You can get bar solder at the hardware store. They will order it.
Now, on the wheel weights,
If you heat the whole thing, you will find you do not need tin for fillout.
That is all it takes.

[Calamity Jake]

If you can find pure tin(95/5) then use it. Don't add more than 2% anything over is a waste of tin.
A plumbing supply should have the 95/5 in one pound sticks or you can order it from ROTO metals above.

[sagacious]

Increase your pouring temp 50-100*F and you'll almost surely get exactly the same benefit as adding tin. Sometimes as little as 25*F is enough of an increase.

It's usually more effective to address the pouring technique before seeking remedy through a change of alloy. In this case, a small increase in temp may be all that's needed. Be sure you're fluxing the melt before the start of a pouring session. Good luck.