Do you have a Tube Shaper? There are a few minor updates you might want to consider.
If you have one of the early models, it may only have a single turnbuckle to adjust the hitch angle. The update replaces the center turnbuckle with two, each mounted 30” from center. Some users have replaced the turnbuckle with a rigid bar to lock the angle. We don’t recommend this. Turnbuckles are designed to be the weak point—easy to break but help prevent major damage if the Tube Shaper is backed into something. We saw a photo last winter of one twisted from such an impact.
When the Tube Shaper is parked or stored, water can collect in the top of both pans. This freezes into heavy blocks of ice. Drilling a ½” drain hole at the low point in each pan reduces ice buildup and helps protect the paint. The top center area also traps water and can benefit from two small drain holes. Store the Tube Shaper on pallets or blocks and keep it off the ground. This will help prevent heavy corrosion on the bottom of the pans.
Paint and galvanizing:
Early models were primed and painted with spray or brush. Some later versions are powder-coated. We’ve now confirmed that Tube Shapers can be galvanized. It’s easy on new, raw-steel units but tougher on older, painted ones. We’re currently stripping and galvanizing an early unit for a customer in Newfoundland, where ocean exposure causes corrosion. For galvanizing, every low point and enclosed tube needs a drain hole on each end. Zinc must flow freely and drain completely. Light surface rust is acceptable, but all paint and primer must be removed.
Prinoth Compatibility – The newer Prinoth Bison X tiller ball hitch has a tighter fit than earlier models. We’ve found that cutting a 1.5” arch into the front lower edge of the socket makes connecting the Tube Shaper much easier. This modification is already included on newer Tube Shapers.
We have galvanizing partners in Utah and Idaho who can handle Tube Shapers.
Tube Shapers are manufactured in Idaho and Virginia, with typical lead times of 4–6 weeks.
If you haven’t seen it yet, check out our Tube Shaper Fun video
