Jim,
I haven't had the best luck with vinal tubing. It just keeps on stretching. I've got some green O2 tube from an oxygen concentrator, but I can't use it yet. The concentrator is still set up to run. Once it's gone I'll have the tube to try.
Yes, storage. The garage didn't hurt the wood or metal, but it dried the leather belt out to the point it won't hold the staple any more.
Joe