Spool Heads Quarter Mile track kit
So what do you all think of this new straight track layout that Russel from Spool Heads is printing for me? I wanted a 4-lane, scale quarter-mile straight track to go along with my DragonFire Raceway road course and as usual my preference is for separate lanes for the entire track length. I like the quality of the Spool Heads products but they didn't show something like that on their website. So I reached out to Russ and asked for a track with a start gate that starts about 3ft high, has around 30 degrees of initial angle and a gradual arc transition over 3ft or so it can sit on tables or on a floor. Here's what we came up with. The supports for the start ramp are adjustable so you can fine tune the transition. (You have to supply & cut the 2x3 wood stands that go into the supports) He also created a new style push-button electric start gate that incorporates a micro switch and connectors to help when it comes to adding a timer if someone wants.
The track I've ordered is a 4-lane but they'll make the same design in 2 and 3 lane configurations if desired.
As an added bonus he's also making a "camera tower" that'll position a camera over the center of the track. The solid side panels on the graphic aren't included, I'll add my own during the build.
Can't wait to get started on this one.
Discussion
That is a really nice set up and if I had the room, I would push the button right now. Only change I would ask for would be an option for the last 6 feet or so to be swapped out with open track. Or should I say have the option to Run either open or lane track for the last 6 feet.
- Knowing Russell, you could probably just ask for an adaptor to open track, and he'll throw one in for you. Dude does some great work. — SpyDude
- I’m pretty sure he’d hook you up with a setup like you describe. This is my 3rd track system from him and he’s been very helpful with requests. — ChiefWopahoo
- Open track the last 6’, I have thought of that. You would have to call the races by eyesight. — alva1370
Looks pretty cool. I like the transition and the ability to move/place where you want.
Russ has studied the physics of "The Whump" for sure! Even low slung Bugatti Bolide castings could run this worry-free
I take it that the black surround of the slope is a cosmetic shell, having the individual support posts hidden underneath? Also, are you looking at standard 1/64 or the wider 1/55 scale that accommodates Pixar Cars too?
- 1/55 — ChiefWopahoo
- I feel that a smooth, arcing transition is the way to go. I have yet another track from Russ with the same drop & transition and in testing it works really well. — ChiefWopahoo
- And yes, the black side panels are there to hide the supports as well as provide a canvas for graphics or logos. — ChiefWopahoo
- To your last point, black foam board cut to fit will stretch that dollar, adhered to the frame with something akin to the flexible 3M Command strips maybe — Chris_Hood
Cool idea, but running cars down the rigid plastic used for 3D printing tracks would be really, really loud. It's just a personal preference for me, but I wish that makers would print using softer, more pliable plastic like orange track.
- I played with sheet metal for track, and wow, that was very loud...lol — dr_dodge
- I haven’t found the sounds to be excessive. I kinda like hearing the cars, there’s a definite sound difference between the faster and slower cars and It seems the quieter ones run faster. I’m assuming it’s due to the wheel condition. — ChiefWopahoo
- That said there are different types of filaments with various properties that can be used for printing. All of my tracks are intended for mobile use so they’re carried in a trailer, which can get pretty hot inside. The DragonFire track is made with a more heat tolerant filament (special order) and slightly heavier than the standard track. The other two are made with a carbon-fiber infused filament that’s heat resistant, strong and relatively flexible. They all feel softer to the touch than other 3D printed things I have. — ChiefWopahoo
- You could line the track with signage vinyl to deaden the sound while maintaining a hard surface. With straight track it should be fairly easy to do — Chaos_Canyon
Another Spool Heads track feature I think is pretty cool is a drop right after the start when you opt for the new style electric push button start gate. The cars get a little extra kick right at the get go so the ramp can have a little less angle. Or if you didn't want the drop you could just mount the start gate flush to the track to eliminate it.
Looks good I'd be interested in one whats the price point and when will it be available to purchase
I don't know when or if these will be on the website, but if you reach out to Russ and ask about the "Quarter-mile kit" he'll know what you're asking about. Regarding pricing I guess that depends on the number of lanes you'd want and the style of start gate. There are a couple gate options. Since I'm in the throws of building this quarter mile track along with another 36ft, 4 Lane track with 4 cross-overs and I recently finshed a 46ft road course a lot of my Spool Heads purchases have been piecemeal. Sometimes I think I have Russ scratching his head but he always seems to get it right.
Check out the size of this race timer from Derby Magic. It’s for the 4 lane tracks & I wanted to make sure the readout is big enough to easily see. Not only will the readout be large but it’ll also display on both sides. Just another step in getting tracks ready for the events next year.
Very nice! Looks slightly more portable than Buckeye Mountain. So that's all Spool Head's track, straights and all?
Can't wait to see it action!