The Tommy Tape Nitro Tape is a high-performance self-fusing silicone tape specifically formulated for the automotive and powersport industries. Nitro Tape creates an airtight, waterproof seal without the use of adhesives and withstands temperatures from -65 degrees F to 500 degrees F. It comes in five colors and can be used to repair fuel and vacuum lines, color-code compartments, or wrap wire harnesses. This product is made in the U.S.A.
The Review
Citing its ease of use and his ability to employ it in multiple applications, Lou Fort, lead tech at K.A.R.S. Inc. in Huntingburg, Ind., praised the effectiveness of Tommy Tape Nitro Tape.
Fort put the high-performance, self-fusing silicone tape to the test when conducting repairs on both a tow vehicle and trailer. He also has used Nitro Tape to wrap a tool handle, and to determine it will stop a weeping power steering return on a personal vehicle.
“So far, I am pleased to report it seems to be working,” says Fort.
There are a few steps users need to take before using Nitro Tape, all of which Fort says are explained on the back of the product’s packaging. The liner must be removed from the silicone tape to allow for the Nitro Tape to adhere to itself once it is wrapped around its target. Then, the tape needs to be wrapped over itself completely to ensure a quality seal. Users must then follow this initial wrap by stretching the tape two or three times its length and ensuring that there is two-thirds of an overlap of wraps.
“To finish off the job, end it the same way as you started by making the last wrap completely over the previous wrap and pressing it firmly in place,” says Fort.
Fort described Nitro Tape as “almost as easy to use as electrical or duct tape, though it needs a little extra care for a high-quality seal.” He was also quick to point out a number of positive product features that became evident when he was testing Nitro Tape.
“I like that the tape is self-sealing, has a very wide temperature range (-65 degrees F to 500 degrees F) and cleans up easily,” says Fort, adding that his only suggestion for improvement would be to offer the tape in a larger-sized roll and different widths.
Nevertheless, he gave Nitro Tape a rating of 10 out of 10.
“It will save anyone not using a self-sealing adhesive tape on electrical work a considerable amount of time and headache,” he says, noting that he previously used electrical tape that required a fair amount of trimming to make the wrap look presentable.
“It can also get you back up and running in a hurry when used on small non-pressurized fluid leaks,” he adds.
