As in real racing circuits across the land, some look at what they have and feel its time to upgrade and renovate. This is the case here as well, so after much thought, it was time to resurface the dungeon racing empire we had created. This was not an easy decision, but my goals in creating a fine scale layout needed a new track to get it right, and that track was Carrera. First, I still feel Scalextric track is the best track you can buy as whole. It is flexible, durable, comes with many specialty pieces and accessories. However, one thing I wanted to do is create a fine scale layout that included an overpass, plus take advantage of the smoother surface, deeper slot and track width. Why the big deal about an overpass? Well, elevating track gives a layout depth and accents a scale appearance, plus landscaping and detailing one brings a layout to life. Some people argue to keep it flat, I agree with Scalextric, Ninco, and SCX that you should. But not so the case with Carrera, it’s stiffer track, allows the creation of and overpass and elevated track easier and smoother than flexible track, with less warping and cleaner connections.

First purchase however was the layout design software, Tracker 2000. I highly recommend this product, it is easy to use, and saves you time and money. After I did, designing the track was the hardest part. Like most people, you know WHAT you want; it’s HOW to get it. I wanted a quicker, less twisty track, but still wanted a challenging course. Moreover, don’t forget, I wanted an overpass. With Carrera’s track being wider, and the fact that the turn borders alone are wider than HO scale slot track (actually putting 2 turn borders together is exactly the same width as a piece of track, so its almost like making a 4 lane layout). Like most folks we had limited space to work with, so in the end I chose the simple "C-shape oval" with total length at 59 ½ feet. We like it a lot, and it provides a challenging, satisfying course along with smooth, sheer speed.

Next decision was the surface to mount the track. With my first track, I simply painted the tables with household paint. It turned out great and was very economical, but I wondered if I could improve on this as well. The answer was found during a trip to Lowe’s Home Center, where we discovered a fantastic carpet. Yes carpet and no, there is not a carpet fiber problem here as the one we chose has a very tight weave. Plus the carpet is a lot easier on the paint jobs of some of your highly detailed cars when the "off" chance one might come off the track, and provides a little more cushion than painted wood. We found a color and weave that simulated real "grass" almost perfectly at 1/32^nd scale. And the visual appearance it gives the layout is well worth the extra money you spend.

Also we had a backdrop issue to deal with. The last attempt was not to my liking. I wanted a smooth, continuous backdrop. So we researched some companies that made backdrops, but to be honest here, they just were too expensive. So what do we do? Well believe it or not we chose roofing tarpaper. We bought a huge roll of it for only $20.00, pretty economical compared to previous options. It was easy and light to cut and mount. It was a breeze to paint as well. In addition, it provided an extra surprise, the paper after being painted crinkled a bit here and there, creating a realistic effect that we like very much. So much in fact, that first intention of painting "clouds" is now a very low priority. Some trimming in the corners was needed, but will be hidden by scenery.

Power control was another issue. When building a scale layout, the last thing you want is a power base box laying in it. This has always been an issue with me. Why do your best to create a scale, realistic layout, then, leave a power base with wires sticking out of it on the table? Removal of this box from the Carrera connection straight immediately voids your warranty, but it had to be done. I will cover this later in detail in a separate article for you, as this conversion will need more than I have here to explain in detail. We also replaced the standard thumb-plunger type controllers for Parma 60ohm controllers. Again some question this decision, but if your not running super-heavy magnets or extreme motors, these work just fine and give great control. Plus this keeps the ohm rating close to the original controllers found in many brands of track for the purpose of product reviews. Conversion was very simple, just cut the end of your controller off about 6 inches from the bottom, and match the wires from the Parma controller as shown. This setup has been confirmed by Parma. For about 20 bucks per controller, it’s almost a no-brainer for this upgrade.

It was time for test-laying some track. A lot of enthusiasts discuss the tabs that lock the Carrera system as being very fragile and prone to breaking easily. They are less durable, and not made to be constantly taken apart, but so far all is intact and work fine. Larger sections at a time were put together; this made it a lot easier installing the track tabs and layout construction. Once in place with the tabs, the connections are almost seamless and provides you with a nice racing surface. All in all, it took about an hour to connect the entire track and get it in place on the tables.

Building a scale layout is a lot of fun, and one of the most satisfying parts of this hobby. With your new track purchase, try taking it to the next level, it adds so much to your racing environment.

Harry Wise