Track setup and test runs

[Deckard]

So I'm helping setup the track before the race. It's a 42 foot aluminum besttrack. I helped setup last year so I've done it before. But, are there any tips aside from setting the track up properly that I should take?

Also should I do test runs with my car? If so how many and should I apply graphite in between test runs or not?

Thanks!

 

[Charles Studer]

If you can run test runs on the race track of course take some passes. That will give you a huge advantage over all the kids who dont have that opportunity.

 

[Brian Stanley]

If the stop section hasn't been cleaned before get a lint roller and go over it several times.

 

[Charles Studer]

When you set up the various lengths make sure that all the gaps or minor defects in the joints ALL fall down hill of the start gate to help limit wheel damage. And then number match each section and connection so rebuild will become more consistent for every time the track is set up. Maybe have the troop take time to polish the joints before the race next year if it isnt already. Also level across the lanes. You can also run a string line from the top of yhe hill to the finish line to ensure it is strait to itself.

 

[Charles Studer]

You can use gaffers tape to hold the set up in place for the race to help keep it staged for race day as well

 

[Pinewood Outlaw]

Make sure the hill section mates to the curve with a smooth transition. Use a 1 foot level and slide down from the hill to the curve joint. Where the two mount together there should be no rocking of the level.

On my track initially there was a mismatch at this joint causing a rocking of a level when slid accross it... even though I correctly installed the hinges and legs on the hill section according to specs on the plans. I had to loosen the hill section leg brackets and slide it down hill to raise the hill section slightly to make the joint between the hill.and curve true and level.

 

[Bubblegum]

Do not be the first one to send your car down the lanes. I have never been to a race where there wasn't some issue during the first few heats.

Maybe grab a kit, just add wheels and axles, and run it in each lane.

I do that at home when I set up my track to test my new cars.

 

[Craigs Cruzer]

I agree with Bubblegum. Test all 4 lanes using a car that is not competing and doesn't matter if it gets damaged or not. This does two things: (1) keeps a competing car from being damaged and (2) eliminates the perception that you are trying to get an unfair advantage that others won't be allowed.

In terms of setup, I've seen our pack use office binder clips to keep the sections aligned.

 

[Prozach2]

Do not be the first one to send your car down the lanes. I have never been to a race where there wasn't some issue during the first few heats.

Maybe grab a kit, just add wheels and axles, and run it in each lane.

I do that at home when I set up my track to test my new cars.

Good call. Just make sure the barrier at the end of the track is enough to stop a bunch of fast cars, and not just one slow car.

 

[Deckard]

Yeah so next year I will have to polish/sand some of the joints. I didn't have time this year. We only setup 2 hours before checkin. Next year I'll be running the race so I can prep the track much better. We had a few bad joints in a few lanes that were not great. Thanks for all of your tips. I did clean the track and that helped a little to keep the wheels clean.