Expanding Your New Slot Car Track - Recommended Features to Add First
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 ธ.ค. 2020
- You got a new Carrera Digital 132 slot car set and want to expand it. With all the options available, you may not know where to start. These are our recommendations on what you may want to add first to most greatly enhance your slot car track and racing experience. Although this video leans toward Carrera Digital 132, some of the information may apply to other slot car manufacturers of digital slot car tracks like Scalextric, and may also apply to analog slot car tracks as well.
If you don't have a local hobby shop that carries Carrera slot cars, select accessories featured in this video may be available on Amazon:
Carrera 124/132 Pit Lane
amzn.to/3DckNYE
Carrera AppConnect
amzn.to/3opQmI5
The URLs above are affiliate links. Purchasing through these links earn the channel a small commission. Thank you for your support.
Carrera wireless controllers are highly recommended as they add freedom of movement to drive from anywhere around the track, and also eliminate the danger of damaging the track by someone pulling or tripping on a wired controller.
When first expanding your Carrera digital 132 or other slot car track and adding accessories, here are the first three things you may want to add (in no particular order):
Track Expansion Set. Carrera slot car starter sets include about 24-25 feet of track. An expansion set can add 40% to your overall track length which allows longer straights to use more of the speed of the cars, and includes more lane change tracks as well.
Lap Counter/Scoring System: Having an option to automatically count laps and indicate finishing positions is required if you want to have an "official" race or competition. You can add a simple lap counter that plugs into the stock Carrera control unit, supplement that with the Carrera position tower to provide a basic lap counting/scoring option. Alternately, for more comprehensive race management, software such as Carrera's AppConnect or 3rd-party software is available and provides a plethora of options such as setting up race schedules, logging race info, and customizing your scoring system.
Pit Stop: One of the coolest features of digital slot car racing is the pit stop. This feature give you a virtual fuel tank, thus creating the need to pit for fuel adding more realism as you now need to develop a fuel strategy.
Information about the Track-to-PC cable options and HSSRMS race management software shown in this video here:
www.hrwforum.com/forum/hrw-al...
For information on Carrera AppConnect race app and Bluetooth adapter for smart phones and tablets:
www.carrera-toys.com/en/2747/...
Music used in video: Demilitarized Zone by Ethan Meixsell,
Other Videos That May Be of Interest:
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Building a Digital Slot Car Track - Design Considerations
• Building a Digital Slo...
Tuning a New Slot Car (for Non-Slot Car Nerds)
• Tuning a New Slot Car ...
Carrera Digital 132 - Nissan GT-R GT500 Showdown on 95 ft Track
• Carrera Digital 132 - ...
Carrera Digital 132 No Magnet Slot Car Racing
• Carrera Digital 132 No...
"Especially if the kids have been drinking" 😂😂😂
Well played sir.
Impressive. In the early 70's we'd get out of highschool and go to the slot car tracks. You could bring your own car and controller or rent them from them. The track time was 5 cents a minute. They had 6 lanes. The track was about 30 long and 12 wide. Wednesday nights all the old timers would come in and race for trophys. They sold cars, clear bodies, tires, and Mabuchi motors, brushes etc.
"especially if the kids have been drinking" epic right there! lol (and SO totally true!!)
Hilarious joke 🤣
Thank you for taking the time to make this video. It was very useful and informative
Great advice, thanks! Saving for my starter set like a little kid at the moment haha! 😂
One of the best "starter videos" on the hobby yet! Thanks
You are most welcome. Thanks for the comment, and have a great holiday!
Damn. Thanks for the great advice! I’m going wireless ASAP !!
My kids are a bunch of lushes.
great video and great advice. This hobbt us so much fun.
The outside shoulders are a great addition, Ive got em on just about all the corners now....better racing when nobody has a wall to guide their car around a corner.......I watched this video and knew I better get the track on a table.
What a fantastic post. Thanks so very much. I raced HO (which we highly modified) as a youngster but your video has given me a renewed interest. I’ve subscribed and am looking forward to your other videos. Well done and thanks again.
You'll love the larger 1:32 scale, and if you end up with Carrera and can run 1:24 scale, it's even cooler. Thanks for the comment, and welcome aboard.
Such a helpful video thank you so much
Thank you for the excellent video. All of my questions regarding the Carrera slot car set were addressed and answered Now, I am looking forward to watching your additional videos. By far the best website with respect to Carrera slot car racing. I know of many people who will also subscribe and enjoy your videos. Thanks for making my day.
Thanks for the comment, much appreciated. If you do end up having questions on anything, be sure to ask. I can usually respond within 24 hours.
Great overview. Thanks! (And a beautiful track, by the way.)
Much appreciated!
Thank you for posting this video. It was very helpful in planning to purchase my first 132 slot car track.
Glad to be of help, and good luck with your new track.
Thanks for all of the tips and wisdom in this great hobby.
You bet!
Lol gr8 video n info..Thanks guys for all ur work in this 🌎
Thanks for all the advice and information.
This is very helpful!!
You're so welcome!
Thanks for the info, good times ahead!!
You bet!
Thanks for all the great info!!
You bet! Thanks for watching.
this video answered a lot of questions. thanks!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the comment and Happy New Year.
This is so wholesome nice fun.
Very Informative video! Thanks, I learned a lot from this. Very nice track you have...
Glad it was helpful, and thanks for the comment.
Love the bongo music interludes
Fantastic video, Very informative.
Glad it's helpful, and thanks for the comment.
Great video. Interesting and informative.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the comment.
Fantastisch! 👍
#1 thing for newbies......GET ON THE FORUMS!!! Easily the best source of info and inspiration. ALSO silicon tires, will make your experience 100% better.
What are some of the forums?
carrera c.o needs made like this toy but monster jam style i hope that 😉 wonderful video mate thx
I did finally found a set with a pre order it was about mid 600's in price, two cars and digital.
Thank you! Your videos rock!
Thanks for the comment, and thanks for watching.
@@johnniehobby what race software do you guys use?
@@jaypitchford9020 Information about the Track-to-PC cable options and HSSRMS race management software shown in this video here:
www.hrwforum.com/forum/hrw-al...
A lot of info. Thank you
You're welcome.
Nice video.. .thank you. Kind regards.
You are welcome. Thanks for the comment.
I think the grand kids are getting a set for Christmas. To be used when they come to visit. PS I get testing time when they're not here
Right on! That's the spirit -- use the grandchildren as a cover to buy yourself toys. Seeing that next Christmas is 11 months away, I predict you'll have 11 or 12 cars by that time. The grandchildren need to have a choice of rides, right?
Glad to see another video from you! Very helpful in getting started and thinking through solid upgrades!
When do we get the COVID 500 racing video??
Good to hear from you. We've been coming up with variations for our race formats but haven't been able to [safely] get the club back together to try them out yet, but your comment gives me an idea for another -- endurance race. The 500 in the COVID 500 will designate how many minutes the race lasts. I'll record the entire thing and post it to TH-cam. It would be amazing if any of the drivers make it though the 8+ hours but even more amazing if any of the viewers make it all the way through the video. Ha!
@@johnniehobby Challenge Accepted!
This has been a great help to me as I'm planning a slot car layout that will be elevated above a HO train layout for a dual purpose room. And I really want the option of running 1:24 cars. Thank you and keep up the good work.
Good to hear. Keep us updated on your progress. Thanks for watching.
@@johnniehobby Will do!
Not sure what kind of train layout you have, but when I was a kid, my dad made got a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood, train on one side, slot cars on the other. When it came time to flip, dad on one end, my brother and I on the other.
@@muskokamike127 yeah There's a good idea....mine is to have both in the same room a 18 foot converted travel trailer H.O on the bottom and 1:32 cars on the top! .... 1:32? So I can run 1:24 slot cars!
@@moparnut6286 It worked out well for us! We had a finished attic for us kids to play in so it worked out great. Your trailer, is it 8' wide? that would only give you 2' on each side, kind of tight or if it was run lengthwise.
I could get by no problem, I'm only 180 lbs 5'9" but if you were a big ole boy, you might have an issue lol.
If you went N scale for the trains, you could do a pretty elaborate layout layout on 4' x 8' .
To make it extremely rigid you could make it a torsion box design with an internal frame, skinned in 1/4" ply. It'd end up 2" thick, but be light but very little if any flex.
Basically what you do is make a frame of 1 1/2" wide strips of 1/2" plywood, glue them vertically in a pattern on one of the 1/4" skins, then put the other 1/4" on top, all glued up. It would be so rigid you could stand on it. Email me at muskokamichael2@gmail.com and I'll send you a sketch. VERY light and stiff.
Great video as always folks. Im probably about 85% there for what I want myself, which reminds me I need to get back in touch with my track software team now that i reformatted as my code only works for so long.
I want some R2's and then I can start working out what specialty parts I need
Right on.
I just stumbled upon your videos. You guys are probably fun to hang with. Got me laughing. I have a 4 lane HO layout in a spare bedroom and just ordered a scalextric arc pro set. So I’ll be doing some living room racing 1/32 scale soon.
Nice! Have fun with your new set, and Happy New Year.
Thanks! Happy New Year to you also!
I started with an analog set and track expansion set to get my feet wet and take out my learning curve on some “inexpensive” i.e cheap analog cars. I can beat em up, take them apart. Swap the magnets in and out….etc Will upgrade with a digital set. ( Waiting for the holidays to try and get a deal.) This way I get more track, 2 cars, controllers and I can always upgrade what’s left of the initial cars.😂
1:45 "...ESPECIALLY IF THE KIDS HAVE BEEN DRINKING". 😜
awesome
I watched this several times over and I appreciate the work and preparation that went into putting this together. I am a child of the 60s and grew up with slot cars so they have that nostalgic connection for me. I went ahead and purchased Carrera Go analog, 1/43 because I didn’t want to spend a whole lot and just wanted to set up a quick track and play around with it for a few days, and thought that would be the end of it. It wasn’t. I bought expansion kits, extra tracks new and used, and 2 more cars, so I wound up spending more than I planned. I’m now considering digital, looking at both Carrera and Scalextric 1/32 scale. I’m leaning towards Carrera, I like the fact that you can run 1/24 cars on the 1/32 sets in case I wanted to try that scale, nothing new to buy. The suggestions mentioned in this video is a great help, so kudos for putting this out there. I’m really enjoying this channel and learning a lot. Two thumbs up!
So, you thought you could buy a starter set and then stop there? LOL. Believe it or not, having only bought two additional cars actually shows some sort of self-control. I have little so sometimes I buy two cars in a day.
If you ultimately go with Carrera and get yourself some 1:24 cars you definitely won't regret it. They drive much differently than the 1:32 but a total blast. We're currently putting together a video about 1:24 pretty soon, just finishing up the editing, so be sure to keep an eye out for that.
Glad the channel is helpful, and welcome back to the world of slots.
I should remind you that running the 24th scale cars does require a different power supply that does not come with a 32nd scale kit.
@@slater4041 Good looking out, I didn't know. BTW, I just purchased the Carrera GT Face Off set and the 30367 expansion set. It's scheduled to come Friday.
@@nja3224 I think we all know what you will be doing this weekend. Good call on the expansion kit as it will give you some good breathing room and some nice layout options. Maybe a pit stop next?!?! Can you do us a favor and let us know if that Porsche has adjustable magnets. Not sure if they changed the chassis lately. Come race day, I got $20 on the Porsche.
@@slater4041 - Exactly, and it’s a 3 day weekend for me with Monday being a holiday. I will absolutely let you know about the magnets. First I have to figure out how to tell, lol but I’ve been watching a ton of videos and learning.
Another great video I felt was geared just for me. Thanks guys I will be using this information to further my tracks progression without a doubt amazing job keep it up... ps.... I went with the gt face off and it so happens I grabbed same lap counter and position tower in video do to how long it would take the Bluetooth adapter to get here, I do intend on grabbing it at some point for sure along with the extension set you noted. Thanks guys you rock!!
Thanks for the comment. As far as the bluetooth adapter, I'm assuming you are looking to order that online. Not sure how long that would take to shop as I get most of my Carrera stuff from my local hobby shop.
@@johnniehobby yes sir Amazon I will probably grab it in a month or so.... I will have to look in to the hobby shops near me I'm not sure how big the slot car community is out here yet. I appreciate the response I wish you a MERRY CHRSITMAS and Slater as well!
1:08 I love that action.
Ny best advice. Get MDF AND A ROUTER!
Had to sub after that epic informative video slot cars are not what they were thats forsure i have anki overdrive and all its other counter parts but this seems like alot of fun now.
Thanks for the comment, and welcome aboard!
Great video!!!! Would you mind sharing the track layout plan?
The track layout plans for both the tracks in this video, the one on the floor and the one on the table are available on my website here:
subhumanracing.net/carrera-layouts/
The layouts were created using Ultimate Racer 3.0, so you'll need that program to open the files to get all the details on exact track pieces used.
If you don't have that track planner program, info on it is here:
www.uracerweb.org/
I just bought my first set. Carrera Race to Victory. It includes the wireless and I also added the bluetooth module. I will run the app on my iPad. I think next I will take your advice and get the expansion set and the pits. Having a pit stop seems like it would add to the excitement. Now I need ot find my Lambo. LOL
Excellent!
You should do a video on track design. How to make a fast and fun track. I learned from this video that straightaways are more fun.
Ask and ye shall receive. Here's a link to our vid on track design considerations.
th-cam.com/video/bvZHMx5KwNo/w-d-xo.html
Wow. Slot car racing has really changed since my old Tyco racing set I had as a kid.
and the price too! who the hell can afford to buy one for the KIDS? I remember buying an AFX set (with 4 cars) for $20.00 which wasn't pad considering I was getting $2.00 an hour sweeping up the DQ parking lot.
I remember seeing ads for Aurora AFX slot car tracks starring Jackie Stewart.
@@pete5668 now that you mention it, that does sound familiar!
Wow that fuel usage system is amazing. Ill have to get a 1/32 set when i get some more space
Cool. Let us know when you get started.
How do you know when to pit? The lights flashing?
How do you setup all the lane changes/put stops and settings? Does the system have a smart controller thats bluetooth? Or is at a car level?
Of course you can take that setup at 4:16, and put an outer track around the whole thing like they do at some real world tracks, so you have both long straights and a inner area with lots of tight turns; best of both worlds.
Damn dude...Noooooice
Thanks!
Please explain also how you applied power supply to your track (added extra power, how?). Thanks
The power taps don't add extra power, per se, but rather shunt it directly to other areas where there is likely to be a voltage drop because of the loss from all the connections between track pieces. The power taps are simply a set of four wires that run directly from the rails of the power track to the rails of a piece of track somewhere else on the layout, thus providing full voltage from the power track to the remote track. The power taps by Carrera have the clips on each end in order to connect them to the rails from underneath.
I ended up buying 2 analog 132 car sets for the price of one for a cheap extension.
Doing your recommendations next
Nice! Thanks for the update.
Very helpful information for those getting into the hobby. I totally agree with the expansion sets being the "best bang for the buck" and that combined with wireless controllers, a pit lane, and a lap counter/race management system (RMS) will definitely make for a better experience.
As always, thanks for the great content.
Cheers,
Jeff (Garage Maker Guy)
Thanks for the affirmation, Jeff. I see you have re-started progress on your track/scenery. Looking good. Happy holidays to you and your family.
@@johnniehobby You are welcome, thank you , a Happy Holidays to you and your family as well :)
Cheers,
Jeff (Garage Maker Guy)
im getting a 1/43 scale track soon and im getting some cars to go with it
Excellent!
A table would be my first addition...
Great video guys! One question can you connect the laptop straight to the Carrera digital track or do you need some sort of interface?. Thanks 🇦🇺😎👍🏁Stephen
There's a FTDI cable required for connection. There are a couple options for that:
PC unit cable from Carrera Slots: www.carreraslots.com/slot-car/30349USB.html
Thread with more info and links for cables:
www.hrwforum.com/forum/hrw-all-scales/club-home-connection/carrera-digital-north-america/4472-hssrms-thread-home-for-faq-discussion-on-bruce-y-s-pc-based-carrera-digital-t-s
@@johnniehobby thanks so much for this information.! Have a great Christmas guys!😎👍🇦🇺🏁
Would you recommend getting two digital wireless starter sets to begin with… and then some lap counting and pit lane accessories?
If it is in your budget then buying a 2nd set is a good way to go, especially if you plan on having more than two drivers at a time as you'll get two additional cars and controllers, plus just about double the length of the track. And, you'll have a backup control unit, and power supply good to use as a separate dedicated tuning track like we use (see our video on Tuning a New Slot Car th-cam.com/video/qbJuwGGWkZU/w-d-xo.html). The downside to that is that the 2nd set will only get you one additional lane changer as opposed to the expansion kit which has three. If your budget only allows for a 2nd kit OR the pit lane at the time, I'd go with the pit lane.
Cool.Iam in
Cool!
Still have a complete Tyco set, but just don't know to get rid of it.
Salami and I have boxes of HO Tyco track that we used to set up every few years. Not sure if we will set that up anymore since we now run digital 1:32. Are you looking to get rid of your Tyco track? Ebay
Great videos as always. I’ve watched the setup vids several times as I sat on the fence about getting my own, then I scored a used 124 set off eBay. The cars look pretty beat up, but the track is good. Would it be totally insane for me to buy ANOTHER 124 set new just for the cars, wireless controllers, and extra track? I feel like if I buy the track expansions I want, individual cars, extra controllers... I’m gonna be out that $500 anyway, so might as well have the extra track footage to go with it, right? A 132 set would be cheaper, but seems like they come with less curbing.
Sounds like you've already convinced yourself to buy another set. Makes sense if you are going to get just about everything that would come in a set anyway. You'll end up with an extra power supply and control unit, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. We have a second CU and transformer that we set up on the bar to use as a tire tuning station.
@@johnniehobby Awesome... thanks for the reply... I hadn't thought about using a CU for tire tuning. Much appreciated!
Enjoy your videos. I am an N scale train guy currently. I am taking delivery on Carrera NASCAR set on Friday. Is there a way to change from clockwise track direction to counterclockwise to make the NASCAR track more realistic? Thanks
If you aren't using a pit stop then you can reverse direction by turning the control unit around. The user interface on the CU will be a little harder to get to as it will be on the inside, however. You can move the interface to the other side with a little modification and moving of wires if you don't mind voiding your warranty. If you use a pit, though, it will still exit to the right instead of left. If you wanted a pit to exit left like most Nascar tracks you could use a left chicane (Carrera part#30350) and advanced pit lane adapter (Carrera part#30361) instead of the standard pit lane kit.
I started slowly with a Scalextric analogue track and added Arc Air for hands free controllers and App features. I have about 20 analogue cars and the idea of going digital appeals to me but I do not want to ditch those cars either. Unfortunately I am not excited at the idea of cutting up chassis and never soldered. I have avoided Carrera purposedly only as it's too big for my 220cm X 110cm board.Policar was my other alternative but it's too new at the moment and not enough track is available even though Policar is probably the best track material out there.
I looked up some tracks on Amazon and I could not even find a kit that had wireless controllers not even the 485 dollar set.
Everything Carrera is getting harder to find as we get closer to Christmas. My original affiliate link in the description for the separate wireless controller set had it available for $130. Apparently the vendor that had that listed no longer does and now takes you to a different vendor that is asking more than $200. Yikes!
opened my carrera wireless set today... all great except 1 controller not syncing to any car.. any suggestions
The most likely cause of that is when the controller doesn't have an ID assigned. Sometimes it can lose its ID if the battery in the controller goes completely dead so after charging the ID needs to be reset. If you don't know how to do that let me know and I can respond with more detailed instructions.
do you know how to get pitlane to count laps too or do you intentionally leave it away from finish/start line?
Pit stop kits from Carrera include what's titled Advanced Pit Lane Adapter that allows counting laps through the pit when the CU location would otherwise miss the lap. There are several configurations that can be used and the way the fueling works can change depending on the setup. We are currently working on a video just on pit lane setup, operations, and the multiple options available. Hopefully we'll have it finished and uploaded within a couple of days.
Can I set up wireless system to my scale grid set up how do I do that and what do I need
The Scale Grid is analog?
I have have bought the Double Victory 1/24 set for my kids age 10 and 6. What accessories wud you most recommend please?
We recommend, in no particular order 1) Adding a pit stop 2) Extending the track and adding more lane changers and 3) Using some sort of lap counting system or race management software. The 1/24 set comes with track borders only for the turns. If you are having issues with the cars drifting past the end of the shoulder extend them with Carrera part #20560. More info on our recommendations for expanding a set is in our video here:
th-cam.com/video/fYwN3DThv5E/w-d-xo.html
Just wondering if you use most carrera cars or higher end cars. I’m transitioning and have thunder slot nsr and slot it. What’s your take on this. I know carrera are more tough. Thanks!
Currently we have only Carrera cars. Makes things easier especially for club racing where most people run those from the GT class (Ferraris, DTMs, Aston Martins, Corvettes, etc.) as they are all close in performance.
Nothing wrong with running cars from other manufacturers, and nothing to do extra if you are running analog, except maybe change the guide keel. Of course, if you have a digital track then each car will need a digital chip. Some are easy to convert like the Scalextric. Not sure about others. Might be some soldering involved or modifying the chassis.
Have you guys tried any frankenslot products yet?
We have not. Nothing they have are of interest except the wireless pistol trigger controller, but at over $200, we'll pass.
do you think it would be a good idea to start with an analog set and then move on to digital ?, I can't find any digital set on my area but they sell the digital unit on it's own, great videos btw, really informative
Almost all the Evolution track (except the power track) is compatible with digital, so that's good. But, getting full digital functionality by buying individual pieces can be pricey. Not only do you need the main control unit, but also digital controllers, whatever number of lane changers you want, and possibly a different power supply. And, of course upgrading the cars either by adding a digital chip to the analog cars or just buying new digital cars. I'd recommend that if you ultimately want digital start with it. You can get digital sets online if there's nothing locally available.
@@johnniehobby thanks for the advice, I was able to buy a digital set online, which was harder than I expected, and got lucky to find an analog set in really good conditions at a flea market, to expand the track, thanks again, really good info to start into the hobby.
Is the Bluetooth Adapter (30369) compatible with the older style Black Box (30344)? It's 100% the next upgrade I need.
I don't think so. The older black box didn't have the lap counting capabilities integrated like the newer control unit does. When using the black box you had to add the separate lap counting track to your set (now discontinued) and connect the PC-to-track interface cable that. Now, if you already have the lap counter track, possibly connecting the Bluetooth to that might work, maybe, but I wouldn't count on it.
hi with the expension set is the curved lane changer out to in and is the straight lane changer in to out? i.e for use next to a pit.. using your famous m.a.s. Cheers!
In the 30367 extension set the curved lane changer is left-to-right, and single straight lane changer is right-to-left, so the single straight changer included will work to construct the M.A.S.
@@johnniehobby thx dude, a great set to be had then.. cheers
if I extend the track ..How do you add an extra transformer ?
You don't need an extra transformer, just power taps, which are wires that run from the power track to another part of the layout to keep the voltage more consistent. We are currently working on a video on exactly that topic, hopefully will be released by the end of the week.
got a couple of question but 1st i want to sey thanks for the usefull tips on putting a track together ,ok 1st question the track im starting off with is a 1/32 but i will upgrade to the 1/24 question i have is do i need to swap out the power supply to run 1/24 an if i want to switch back an forth to 1/32 do i need to swap the power supplys back?next question were do i find the track building software that tells me what track part numbers i need to build it and shows me the layout of the track when its complete,also do i need to buy both the lap counter prt#30355 and the lap tower prt#30357 or can i just use one or the other, and do you have a part # for a dual lane pitstop?ok now its time to crack open a beer ,appreciate the help ,would offer ya a beer but cant seem to get it to fit through the computer screen
The 1/24 cars run on 18 volts, the 1/32 run with 14 volts so you'll need to swap power supplies depending on what scale you are running. I've heard some guys just run everything with the 1/24 18-volt power supply but I couldn't guarantee it won't shorten the life of the 1/32 scale cars.
The track planning software we use is called Ultimate Racer 3.0. That program has two modules, the track planner which has stock libraries for just about every slot car track you can think of. The other module is race management, but we don't use that race management instead we use HSSRMS. Link to Ultimate Racer is here:
www.uracerweb.org/
You can use the lap counter by itself, the display tower is optional. The tower can't be used by itself, though. You need to have the lap counter to run it.
The dual lane pit isn't a special piece it is just two pit lane kits (30356) nested one inside the other. If you haven't already, check out our video on the Carrera pit lane. It shows some options for pit configurations.
th-cam.com/video/VV1fkprqvr0/w-d-xo.html
Hope this helps, and good luck with your track.
@@johnniehobby thanx for the help, hope to have all this set up in the next few months ,then going to surprise the gran kids with it , thanx again
Great video but geared for people with BIG WALLETS! I'm an old geezer and prefer the old analog tracks/cars that cost way less. I do admit it must be nice to run multiple cars at same time. Being able to run 1:24th is great but man do you need a big room to get a decent track. Even 1:32 requires a decent space and while HO can fit a huge layout in a small footprint I always found HO sets to be finicky at best. 1:43 is the best balance for me.
I hear you on the HO sets being finicky. I still have most of my old HO track and cars but never run them. After years in storage it'll take a day just to get the rails clean enough to keep the cars from stopping or slowing down. It's nice that Carrera makes the 1:43. It's a perfect go-between for those that want something larger than HO but don't have the space and/or the budget for 124/132.
@@johnniehobby I have about 30 Carrera/SCX cars in 1:43 and about the same number in Scalextric/SCX and Carrera in 1:32 and I've found that the 1:32 cars are nowhere near as reliable as the 1:43 cars. I still have scratch-built 1:32 cars from years gone by that the guides bottom out to point where cars won't run but then I have several late model Carrera and SCX cars that do the same thing!
Gentlemen, The Bluetooth app connect device and Carrera’s software/app provides functionality that eliminates the need for both the lap counter and position display tower that you showed in this video, correct? Or would you recommend one or both of those items as well. Thanks in advance, I know I’ve been a bit of a pain.
No worries, happy to answer questions. You are correct, race management software will make the position tower and lap counter redundant. The disadvantage to running the Carrera App is that I believe it's only for smart phones and tablets and thus maybe difficult for all the drivers to see it unless there's some way to display what's on the phone or tablet on a larger screen. It's possible (not 100% sure) that multiple users can connect with their own device at the same time so they can have their own display.
Also, cost-wise, the app is free and the bluetooth adapter costs less than the display tower and lap counter. My recommendation is to have a race app. No need for lap counter at that point. Position tower is optional if you want drivers to be able to see current position if your device's screen isn't very large. Race app also displays fuel level, which again may be difficult for all drivers to see, but the race apps also makes announcements when fuel level is low.
@@johnniehobby - Perfect, thank you. On my way to order the adapter. Cheers!
is the pitstop function forcing you to fill up completley or can you decide wehn to drive out yourself while filling up ? like wehn i just want to have splashing of a few "liters" because there is only 10 laps to go for me or so
You can get a splash, a full tank, or anywhere in between. A good video on the complete setup and operation of the pit stop functions is here:
th-cam.com/video/VV1fkprqvr0/w-d-xo.html
@@johnniehobby awesome thank you
hey me again... the pit kit, does it only run one way i.e right to left if you know what i mean. thx.
The pit lane kit only exits to the right. If you wanted a left-entry pit (I think that's what you're asking) you could use the Carrera chicane (left) kit (part #30350) combined with the advanced pit lane adapter.
@@johnniehobby yeah i think i get it .. cheers fella
“...Damage the kids, especially if the kids have been drinking.” 😂
With Carrera I think the first thing you should invest in is a better controller. It makes the cars so much more fun to drive. That thumb plunger is not my favourite.
Hi guys, long term viewer here. I purchased a D132 set and plenty of extras during Covid, but didn’t really have the room. I have it now and I’m anxious to start. In one ov your videos, you mentioned track planning software but I can’t for the life of me find it. Do you have it readily available to send me the link or name of the app? Much appreciated and Happy New Year to those on the show and the faithful watchers.
The track planner we use is titled Ultimate Racer 3.0. Here's a link:
www.uracerweb.org/index.html
There are two modules for the software; a track planner and race manager. We only use the track planner component and use something different for race timing/management.
Much appreciated! 👍
You can still use non digital track pieces with a digital track? I am a buy all the used sets on Facebook or nothing kinda dad and want to make a big track for myse...my son. I never got to do slot cars but we have done thomas trains and hotwheels(so not as fun as they were 25yrs ago) and 100$ can get you a room full when going used.
There are two types of track, the older Evolution track is 4-tab, the digital and newer Evolution track is 3-tab, but they are all compatible across platforms. The older track locks together a bit differently, though.
can i use my carrera profi track with newer stuff like this? are the cars rc or the track itself? :) tnks
Profi track is not compatible with Evolution, Exclusiv, or digital 124/132.
yeah, i thought so.. my profi track is old, obsolete and not desirable anymore. LOL.. still gonna race it this winter.. i got nothing else. @@johnniehobby
What I missed here are those kind of things:
- Add side stripes to your track layout for more place to drift and don't get your cars shredeered while both drifting or damaging the paint job on the outside lane
- Add more power points to the track, what gives you an better consistent power level for the cars at all parts of the track.
- Tune it ! (Tires, the lane holders first) ^^
We need tires, brushes, and track, and old school muscle cars... Where do we find these accessories...Digital and old school Carerra are compatible, I imagine...Am I correct?
Oh, and elevated curve track with pilons too.
The first place to check is any of your local hobby shops that carry Carrera. If you have nothing close to you, here is a link to a Carrera online retailer:
www.carreraslots.com/. You can also find Carrera accessories on Amazon as well, just beware of some retailers trying to charge way too much.
Carrera doesn't carry much in the way of old school muscle cars at this time. You might find some of their discontinued muscle cars on Ebay or other auction sites. Older Carrera cars and track only have limited compatibility with digital. The older 4-tab Evolution track will connect to the newer 3-tab track, and the older yellow borders will work with the newer track as well. Analog cars won't run on a digital track, although the digital cars will run on an analog track.
I bought the Carrera Digital 132 cordless set and setting up the track is a pain. When I connect pieces of track the prior connected pieces detach from each other and I have to get back and reconnect the track. Can you make a video of how to connect the track?
Are you using the red clips to lock the track pieces together?
@@johnniehobby Yes, but they do not seem to help lock the pieces together.
@@RK-kj8di Try flipping them over. Maybe you just put them in upside down. I have done this before.
@@slater4041 When I look at the underside of the track, the red clip has the tab shown so I can press the tab down to make it easier to remove the red clip. The issue I am witnessing is the red clip slides inside the track when I want to connect the track to another piece of track. Because the red clip slides more inside the first track, the red clip does not click into the second piece of track.
@@RK-kj8di Yeah. Sometimes I move the clip back and forth to get it to click in. Sometimes they will unclip on there own as you build further along the track. Just gotta keep an eye on it, I guess.
Would you say that is the best scalextric to get ?
Not sure what you are asking. Would I recommend Scalextric over Carrera? Or, what Scalextric set would be best?
I am thinking about Carrera Digital 124 scalextric I like the bigger cars
I've just brought a carrera set & live in the uk 🇬🇧 it's come with a 2 pin plug socket instead of three pin as we use in the uk wall socket. Is there a adapter for this 🤔 pls couldyou show what adapter to use , has it got to be the same voltage as the power box? Thank you for any advice you give me .
It's the spirit of speed set btw . Sorry forgot to add this 😅
@@davidprior8849 It is a USA plug with two flat blades?
@johnnie hobby no two round pins . The same as a adapter u use to shave or use a toothbrush in a country outside the UK. These adapters can't be used as not enough voltage. Has the adapter got to be the same voltage as the transmitter ? Thank you for replying bk . Hope to hear from you soon my friend.
@@davidprior8849 Unfortunately, I'm not familiar with electrical standards in the UK or what voltages the Carrera power supply can handle. A good resource are slot car forums. Here are two I've used and got responses to my questions relatively quickly:
www.slotforum.com/
www.slotcarillustrated.com/
Also, are you familiar with the TH-cam channel titled Slot Car News? The host, Dave, used to work for Carrera. You may want to reach out to him through his channel. I'm sure he has more knowledge on the Carrera power supplies than me.
I'll look at the 2 website uv given me . Thank you for all your help it is very much appreciated.
Can I just come over with my Dan Gurney 68 Cougar?
Sure. The entry fee for drivers is a bottle of Seagram's and a 2-liter of 7-up. Plus, when you go home you have to leave the Cougar.
@@johnniehobby You are hilarious, l got a great laugh out of that.
Hi Johnnie I have been trying to get a slot car set for over 23 years miserably failed 🙄by raising two girls but now my daughter is pregnant with my first grandson 😀I get the chance now to do this but have no idea 😵💫of where to start I love the crossovers and the pitstop😋 is there a way that you could design a track for me and learn from your mistakes and have lots of fun can you help please that all Thanks Mark
I can put a design together or might already have a layout that would work for you, but have a few questions first:
- How much space do you have the the layout?
- Do you know how long you want the circuit to be ultimately? For reference, the starter tracks are all about 25 feet long, the track on the floor shown in some of our videos, like this one (th-cam.com/video/bvZHMx5KwNo/w-d-xo.html) is about 95 feet total length. Keep your budget in mind, too. You can assume a layout will average about $10 USD per foot of overall track length?
- Are you planning on having a variety of radii of turns? Examples of those are here, th-cam.com/video/cwDQaUsN6xk/w-d-xo.html, and here th-cam.com/video/B7IH5ba6Ez0/w-d-xo.html.
- When you say you love the crossovers do you mean the double lane change? We discourage the use of the forced crossover but encourage the use of double lane change. Of course if you want the forced crossovers I can certainly include them in a design.
- Do you want a single pit stop or dual? If you aren't sure of the difference, see our video here th-cam.com/video/VV1fkprqvr0/w-d-xo.html.
@@johnniehobby thank you for your reply I will check these links out again and come back to you really appreciate the help THANKS
@@johnniehobby would it be best to start off with this first Carrera 1/24 Digital Double Victory Set then build from there onwards or start from scratch every bit to design
I just started can you tell set I should buy
For a 1/32 starter set, the Carrera 30022 DTM Bull and Horse Set is what I would recommend. It comes with wireless controllers and (2) Ferrari 488s, which handle really well, and because they are the same chassis should run very close. All the other 1/32 sets come with wired controllers and/or I'm not crazy about the cars that are included.
If you are going with 1/24 scale, either Carrera 23631 Start Your Engines or 23633 Full Speed sets. There may be other sets available but not on the site I'm referencing which is here:
www.carreraslots.com/
Thanks😅
If I purchase the Carrera 1/24 track set can Carrera 1/32 cars be run on the track? Of do I have to purchase a new transformer. I believe the 1/24 set has a 18v transformer. Is there a work around to run 1/32 cars or do I need buy a new transformer. New to slots, buying a set for my son. I use to race back in the mid 60's, night and day comparing them. Thanks lots of great information.
So if you buy a 1/32 Carrera track and convert it to digital it will not be a 1/24 track is that correct?
All Carrera track (except the Carrera GO 1/43) is 1/24 scale whether it's analog or digital. The packaging is labeled Carrera 132/124 because you can run both 1/24 and 1/32 analog cars on an analog Carrera track, and both 1/24 and 1/32 digital cars on a digital Carrera track. 1/24 scale cars are bigger and heavier and require the 18 volt power supply and 1/32 cars run using a 14 volt power supply.
If you haven't seen it yet, here's a link to our 1/24 scale video where you can see the difference between the two scales.
th-cam.com/video/G8v2MGmS_LY/w-d-xo.html
@@johnniehobby Thanks I will check it out.
Carrera is so hard to find most hobby shops don’t have them or they have the basic set that’s not even digital and the digital is very expensive so what gives ? Are they still being manufactured today?
As far as I know Carrera is still producing product. There may be some delays in manufacturing due to covid. You can find Carrera online but you might pay a premium for some things.
If a hobby shop carries Carrera then they should be able to get anything Carrera makes, even if the shop doesn't normally keep it in stock. At our local shop, if they don't have a particular car or specialty track piece in the store the shop owner will put it on his next order to Carrera for us. Digital is spendy. It's the price you pay for being able to run up to six cars, change lanes, have pitstop functionality, have ghost cars, etc. Totally worth it if it's in your budget.
They are the same evo and digital just different starter starter piece . All upgradeable
The digital cars run 3ither and the non digital cars are upgrateble by chip to convert to digital. Can't go wrong buddy
What's needed to replicate yours?
There's two featured in the video. The one on the floor is about 100 feet and requires the following: 46 standard straights, 420 degress of radius 1 curve, 1 set 4/15 curve, 390 degress of radius 30 high bank curve, 180 degrees of radius 2 high bank curve, 240 degrees of radius 2 curve, 2 1/4 straights, one pit stop set (2 is optional). This one has seven lane changers. Add what you want. Keep in mind each is two straight sections, thus remove the standard straights from the equation.
The other track featured that was on the table is about 70 feet. That one used 29 standard straights, 570 degrees of radius 1 curve, 90 degrees of radius 3 curve, 90 degrees of radius 4 curve, 210 degrees of radius 3 high bank curve, 2 1/3 straight. Like the other track, number of lane changers is preference, and remove two standard straights from the total for each.
Both of those layouts are on my webpage where you can download the track plan thumbnail and track plan file which you can open in Ultimate Racer 3.0 software. URL is here:
subhumanracing.net/carrera-layouts/
Is Carrera or Scalextric better? We have a total budget of $500.
We could do an entire video (and maybe we should) on the similarities, differences, pros, and cons for Scalextric and Carrera. Here are some main points, but I would encourage you to take a look at websites from each manufacturer where you can see what features are available and prices you'd expect to pay online or at your local hobby shop.
- scalextric offers more in the way of classic American cars. Carrera has more of the exotic race cars.
- as mentioned in the video, Scalextric track is 1:32 and Carrera is 1:24 which give the option of running the larger 1:24 cars but the track takes up more space.
- Carrera lane changers comprised of two sections of track, which is the reason I went with Carrera when getting into 1:32 because I knew I was going to expand the track and have high speeds. Those longer lane changers mean the transition from one lane to the next is more gradual. Thus you can take the Carrera lane changers at full speed and not de-slot, whereas the Scalextric transition from lane-to-lane is only over the length of one straight track, thus more abrupt and you might not be able to take them at full speed.
- if you aren't planning on having a large, fast track, then those shorter lane changers of Scalextric won't matter as you won't get the cars up to high speeds anyway.
- if you are trying to put Carrera track in a limited space, those two-straight lane changers could be a hindrance as well as the size of the track overall.
- IMO, Carrera gives you more for your money as cars and track appears to cost less than Scalextric.
- If you have the space, go with Carrera. If you have limited space or want a better selection of American cars, go with Scalextric.
Here are links to sites for both manufacturers:
Carrera of America: www.carreraslots.com/
Scalextric: www.scalextric.com/us-en/
Hope this helps.
Either brand will bring you tons of fun. Personally I did the carrera set, due to the ability to run 1/24 or 1/32 scale cars.
If you dig the American muscle like me and decide to go carrera you can find on eBay scalextric cars brand new with carrera chips in them already pre assembled, it’s more expensive for these cars but if you can save for them I’d highly recommend it.
for the real hardcore racers, there should be a photofinish camera that takes pictures when the cars cross the finish line in case the finish is too close to call.
We always know who won no matter how close the finish was. The margin of victory is shown on the computer screen when using the race management software and we've have finishes within hundreths of a second. The lap counter track has infrared sensors -- some people would call them photo eyes -- that sense when the car crosses the finish line. So, kinda like a photo finish but no actual photo to look at.
Any suggestions for installing a set in da VIP section of da Club? Was going to call it sluts and slots and considering the Ho scale.
Do you sale these
No. We're not a distributor. If there aren't any hobby shops that carry slot cars near you, there are options to get them online.