Thursday July 24, 2003

Scalextric Ford GT40 MK II

LE MANS 1966

Although not technically a new release, if there was a model that enthusiasts in our hobby wanted produced, the GT40 would clearly be near the top of the list. When the first versions arrived, the fury over these models proved just how popular they are, with more liveries and versions continuing to head our way. One model after another seemed to find its way into our basement and then it seemed to calm down. Looking back on this madness now, I remember many requests for this version, and it makes this MK II seem very significant.

When it finally arrived, I immediately brought it down to our basement for photographs. I wanted to capture it as best I could...as with its counter-parts before it, it would soon find itself in our racing rotation and falling victim to the eventual thrashing SOME of the drivers here put them through. (Not me of course).

Given that this is the Sport version, we have our model secured in the familiar Sport packaging complete with a small history inside the box lid. Also included in this version is the optional button magnet for the front, with easy to follow instructions for placement. As I placed the car on the track, I was very impressed at its striking appearance. Aside from the MK I Gulf Editions, this model looks better than any other in my opinion. The bright red body, white stripes, mixed with gold wheels just sets this model away from the rest. Of course this is all personal preference, but its great looks along with its rich history made it a mandatory acquisition.

Body fit and overall finish were on track with the Scalextric Standard. A clean, even, dirt-free clear-coat sealed all the markings nicely. The body is molded in color and Tampo-markings seem close enough to the prototype, with all the markings crisp and opaque. I did find some separation near where the body meets the chassis, but it isn't that noticeable unless you get really close. Looking around the model, the detail level employed here should satisfy any enthusiast. Aside from the windshield wiper, which appears to be black in prototype photos instead of chrome, I have to say that Scalextric seems to have captured this legend very well.

Wheels and tires were again well done, with the wheels complete with rotor detail, and according to those prototype photos seem to be a very satisfactory match. However it is with the tires themselves that I tend to be a little picky. This model, like several before it, has had tires slightly uneven with a low center/high side issue. However, this really isn't a major problem as every single model we race using the original rubber tires requires at least a little sanding, these tires just need a little more time. I advise sanding them not only for improved performance, but to prevent the motor shaft from possibly rubbing on the tire. I have had only one model that had this problem, and this one was VERY close. When I sand these tires, I take them all the way down, removing any trace of tread design. Once this is completed, I feel the car is much smoother and improves handling.

The body is held in place by 6 screws, with the body components breaking down into 3 parts. Once removed you can see the stock Mabuchi motor with Sport wrapper sitting in the sidewinder configuration. This motor is the same motor found in the non-Sport versions, aside from this added wrapper. We also see the that this car is lighted (up front only), and before some scoff at this as a waste, I highly advise you take in some night racing on your track before you come to any conclusions. We do this quite often here, and it really adds to the realism of the racing, in fact we race these cars more at "night". The Sport version is also fitted with a precision ground rear axle, held in place by metal bushings. These are a very good fit, however as with most models here I usually add some adhesive to the bushings to help keep them in place.

Remember that with these metal bushings, you need to make sure that you oil them from time to time to prevent any overheating or other damage caused from non-lubricated metal to metal contact, and I also add a small drop on each end of the motor at the shaft. I use a Trinity Royal Oil bottle that once I use all of the Trinity oil, I fill it with 3 in 1 Electrical motor oil. I like this oil bottle for its precision oiling in tight spaces. Once she is lubed up, and the tires sanded, it is ready for the track.

The interior Scalextric has provided enough dashboard and driver detail to once again satisfy most racers and is easily removed. Up front we find the self-centering guide system, which works as intended, although some feel it hinders performance. I can't say that in my testing it really effects handling a great deal, but I do find it as being a little stiff, so I removed it. This is easily done by first removing the light bar assembly, then the spring cover. Once I remove the spring, I just put this cover pack in place and re-assemble the body.

The bar magnet Scalextric utilizes is more than strong enough in my opinion, and does a good job of keeping this car planted to the track. Earlier I mentioned that the Sport version includes an additional button magnet for the front of the car as shown in the photo. In my opinion, I have come to the conclusion that this button magnet should be used as an OPTION,  not as an addition. Given this stock motor and the already strong bar magnet, I can't safely suggest combining both. I have to admit that I now find these cars the most fun with the bar magnet removed, and using only the front button magnet.

Of course you CAN run it this way, and many enthusiasts do, however I would keep an eye on your motor temperature. As with the Trans-Ams, MG Lola and other Sport models, this car can certainly be tuned for blazing speeds with the aid of strong magnets, but sooner or later your stock motor will feel the pressure. I have had this happen to only one of the GT40s in our collection and when it did, I replaced it using the SCW $5.00 motor. It was an easy snap in replacement, and provides you with a little more power that you can definitely notice, and fairly easy on your checkbook.

Performance of this model pleases me as it is very quiet and smooth. Throttle response and braking are both clean using our PARMA 45 ohm controllers. I tested this car using both our Carrera Oval and Artin Road Course, with the Carrera utilizing the LOKO 40 Amp Power Supply, and the Artin now upgraded using the Scalextric Sport Power Base with dual transformers. On both systems this car is a pleasure to drive. I used the standard Scalextric controllers on the Artin system, and although not as precise as the PARMA, they still functioned well enough for some close racing.

In the end, this model is almost mandatory for any Motorsports fan. Since its first release I have collected them all, and will continue to do so. I think Scalextric has done a great job on this model, and with the Fly version right around the corner, things could get very interesting. I can safely advise this model to the beginner or veteran alike, and as with most slot cars produced today you should have hours of fun with it. The miles we have put on our models is proof enough for us that they are a winner and I think if you try one, you may come to the same conclusions.

Harry

As always, feel free to email me at wiseone@yhti.net about this article or just the hobby in general.

Or better still, drop into the Home Racing World Message Forum and let us know your thoughts. 

A thanks goes to Slot Car World for providing me with this model, they have more in stock, so give them a call today.