Tuning a New Slot Car (for Non-Slot Car Nerds)

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.พ. 2025
  • New slot cars run poorly right out of the box. Tuning of the car can make it perform dramatically better. The method demonstrated here is a basic tune that is relatively quick to perform and does not require any special tools or equipment. It will, however, get you 95% of the performance gain of a more in-depth tuning. The video demonstrates a chassis lube, pickup braid adjustment, and tire truing on a Carrera Digital 132 slot car. The procedures will be exactly the same when tuning a Carrera Evolution (analog) slot car, and very similar with other brands of slot cars such as Scalextric and Ninco, as well as the larger scale 124.
    Tuning a car for ultra-competitive racers involves special tools and machines plus many hours to get the car to run its best possible lap times. More casual racers do not need, nor would they notice, small increases in performance gained by many of these advanced techniques that are not mentioned in the video. This tuning (oiling, pickup braid adjustment, and tire tuning) is actually not only for brand new cars, but should also be considered regular maintenance.
    This video is targeted at casual slot car racers running on their own home tracks like people who race with their kids or racing nights with beer and friends. Hard-core slot car racers may want to research more comprehensive tuning techniques.
    Cars featured in the video include Carrera's Ferari 488 GT3, Chevrolet Corvette C7.R, Mercedes AMG GT3, Nissan GT-R GT500, LaFerrari, and a Mercedes AMG C 63 DTM.
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Other slot car videos that may be of interest:
    Building a Slot Car Tire Truing Machine on the Cheap - Carrea D132 Slot Car Tuning
    • Building a Slot Car Ti...
    Carrera Digital 132 Nissan GT-R Showdown:
    • Carrera Digital 132 - ...
    Building a Digital Slot Car Track - Design Considerations
    • Building a Digital Slo...
    Carrera Digital 132 Ferrari 599XX Showdown:
    • Carrera Digital 132 Fe...
    Carrera Digital 132 Slot Car Racing
    • Carrera Digital 132 Sl...
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Videos featuring other hobbies that may be of interest:
    Nascar Racing (PC Game) League Race at Daytona Highlights with Commentary:
    • NR2003 - Cheap Whiskey...
    Backyard R/C Car Track:
    • Reclaiming Our RC Car ...
    Nascar Racing (PC Game) League S02E02 - Michigan Highlights
    • NR2003 - Cheap Whiskey...
    RC Pilot Drops Bomb then Crashes Plane
    • RC Pilot Drops Bomb th...
    Music used in this video:
    Demilitarized Zone by Ethan Meixsell
    RC Car Track Building
    • Reclaiming Our RC Car ...

ความคิดเห็น • 348

  • @johnniehobby
    @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +50

    Although we present the information here as a how-to for a brand new slot car, the procedures should actually be considered regular maintenance as cars will eventually go "out of tune."

    • @wildemouse
      @wildemouse 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      If you flatten the new tires and make them smaller, you will get less distance per rotation, making it slower.

    • @geshscale6068
      @geshscale6068 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@wildemouse But it depends on the track. for a track with very long straightaways, leave the tires, but if there are corners, its best to have grip because it gives more than the fraction of speed that the size does.

  • @davidfinch5517
    @davidfinch5517 5 ปีที่แล้ว +69

    I bought a classic le mans track for my two girls just to see if they loved it like i did when i was a kid. we played and the cars kept slipping out. my youngest (7) was starting to get very annoyed. i did exactly what you said in this video. and afterwards my youngest got the quickest Lap time of the whole day. she was absolutely made up. Thank you for this video.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      I remember when my girls were that age. It's heartbreaking to see them get frustrated with something like that. Your comment totally made my day.

    • @davidfinch5517
      @davidfinch5517 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@johnniehobby. Id love to get back into this like you Guys. dont even know were to find clubs or anything though. as i Live in Chorley in Lancashire, my first stop will be pendle slot racing and ask how to get into it again. I went to fix the second hand cars that came with the set and they were very helpful.

    • @saucysuishi341
      @saucysuishi341 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Good dad

    • @subaruthug
      @subaruthug 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Bloody kids.......I got my daughter into it as well, and now I can't beat her LOL

  • @titanary68
    @titanary68 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    So happy I found this video and your channel. I’m 39 and just getting back into the hobby at the interest of my daughter and just purchased a whole Carrera 1/32 digital track set up and cars so this video is pure gold to me as thanks to places like Amazon actual brick and mortar hobby shops I grew up with are dying

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Congats on your re-entry into the hobby, and very cool your daughter is into it as well. Your comment made my day.

  • @SagostundenSvenska
    @SagostundenSvenska ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I just bought my first race track as an adult. Trying to get into the hobby. So far so good. Alot of questions that needs answers still but this was very helpful.
    I would like to see a video for people like me, who are interested in picking up the hobby. Maybe compare the different brands of track, what to buy, what not to buy. What the difference between cars are etc. so the experience of trial and error dont get too frustrating :)

  • @geneschulp8598
    @geneschulp8598 4 ปีที่แล้ว +90

    You guys are a real inspiration.
    Now that I am divorced, it's gunna be awesome.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      The best comment on this video so far. It deserves more likes.

    • @pf465
      @pf465 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@johnniehobby Here for the divorce. like given!!

    • @slater4041
      @slater4041 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Funny because I won four straight event nights since my divorce. I might just start my own divorced guys slot racing team. Who's in?!?!?

    • @recoswell
      @recoswell 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      maybe that should tell you it's time to put the toys away

    • @geneschulp8598
      @geneschulp8598 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      At my age, the cars are more fun than a wife

  • @charlesm7589
    @charlesm7589 ปีที่แล้ว

    As someone coming back to slots after 40 years, I appreciate that you are more laid back and just about having fun. My real world car passion is a 1965 Delta 88 hardtop coupe. I have resto modded it with disc brakes, aluminum heads (unleaded gas friendly) and an electronic distributor. The purist Olds guys hate me for it. Anyway, I just want to have fun with the Olds and the slots.

  • @rayandersonii8702
    @rayandersonii8702 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Just wanted to say "THANKS" for these videos. I'm getting back into slot car racing, as it was so much fun when I raced 1/24 scale before as a teen. Alot of the tuning tricks I can remember doing back then, but obviously over the years had forgotten about some of them. So again, THANKS!!! Its a blast racing these cars, and the fun one can have with their friends!!!

    • @dreyn7780
      @dreyn7780 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well, slot car manufacturers are way more suffisticated than people give them credit for.
      The modern slot car has 3 different levels of performance. The old-fashioned cars have 1 or 2 levels of performance.
      Some of the 24 hour race cars have a setting designed to give the driver A REST during racing.
      You FOOLS don't even think of these STANDARD features.
      You people are stuck with the ideas of the 80's.
      The industry MOVED ON. You're supposed to catch up.
      Most video makers think they know MORE than ford.
      And we're supposed to take this gossip.
      If you listen to these FOOLS you'll ruin the professional slot car by such & such brand.

  • @craigv367godsman4
    @craigv367godsman4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Greetings, I'm returning to the hobby after probably 50 years, and I truly appreciate the tips. Thank you

  • @kendushane1039
    @kendushane1039 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Salami!!! Thanks for the videos man. I’m 61 and dammit I’m getting back into slots thanks to you. Can’t afford the digital I have to go with the analog but I’m still stoked.
    Thanks again man.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      You are welcome. The good thing about the Carrera track is that the standard sections are the same for both analog and digital. So, later on if you find the means you can go digital by adding the digital pieces to the existing track and can also add the chips to analog cars to make them digital as well. Nothing wrong with analog, though. Still tons of fun.

  • @mikeprewett9671
    @mikeprewett9671 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Great video. The 1st time that I heard the word 'Gription' was from the late racing great,"Rolf Stommelen" . I was working on the Porsche 935 that he was driving in 1981.

  • @robertbittles6944
    @robertbittles6944 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Liked and subscribed. I had a blast with 1/43 slot cars as a kid and for several years now I've wanted to get into 1/32 cars. I just recently jumped in with a Ninco analog setup and already have several cars. I like your no nonsense approach here and appreciate you sharing.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Good choice to get into the bigger the scale. The bigger the scale, the more fun they are IMO. Unfortunately also more expensive though. The saying that "the difference between men and boys is the price of their toys" is totally true.

  • @CardinalGamingLounge
    @CardinalGamingLounge 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    amazing video for a beginner such as my self thank you a million for the simplicity and great dialog along with the precision at which explained can't wait for more content!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You bet. Do the following after you get your 132 set: after adjusting the brushes and lubing the motors, run the cars for about 20-30 laps before doing the tire tuning. Then tune the tires and run again. You should notice a big difference (unless you got super-lucky and the tires were totally true out of the box, but chances of that are close to zero). Also, this will work on your kids' 143 cars as well. Especially good if they getting frustrated if they are having trouble keeping the car on the track.

    • @CardinalGamingLounge
      @CardinalGamingLounge 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby Thanks for advice! i was going to try on 143 since you said it should work for all slots i appreciate the reaffirmation puts me at ease i'll defiantly keep in touch and inform you on the progress. again i appreciate all you do and hope to see much more!

    • @bradsanders6954
      @bradsanders6954 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby Of course turning the power setting down is a good way to help get the hang of slotting...its weird how different cars run on the same power setting. They vary quite a bit.

  • @BarryWilsonOrg
    @BarryWilsonOrg 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for all the vids guys (I've now watched many and subscribed). I tuned a couple cars and am amazed at the difference in just sanding the tires makes

  • @dhgmllcshea5038
    @dhgmllcshea5038 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for all of these great tips.
    My Carrera 132 Audi R8 came Out of Box with white grease on gears and all 4 wheel bearings!
    I just picked up the yellow R8 LMS GT3 in Mann Filter No.28 (31027) and noticed this.
    It came out in Feb 2023.
    Apparently they are listening over there in Carreraland!
    Has anyone else seen this????

  • @chrisa2693
    @chrisa2693 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    After watching, I tried the oil (using Dynamite Medium) on a test car. The oil helped with noise and rubbing.
    Ran some test laps to grab average lap times. Then applied the tire tuning [*] method.
    Using the same layout for before and after laps. I was able to reduce laps times almost 25% on average. This was also my results with other digital or analog 1:32 cars and analog 1:43 cars on a 1:24 analog Carrera track. I also experienced higher speeds before oversteer/drifting through turns and chicanes.
    Great tips! Thanks for sharing. It has added another level to this hobby I share with my kids.
    [*] I added some layers of the sandpaper to raise its level from the track and keep the free tire from burning and polishing on the bare track when the car was kept level.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Excellent! Thanks for sharing your results. Good idea to stack the sandpaper.

  • @alfonzooliviera1121
    @alfonzooliviera1121 5 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Excellent video! I had to learn this all myself and you guys are clearly pros at this hobby. Might be worth checking out Paul Gage tires. They’re urathanes so even if they don’t grip better than stock tires, which they do, dust doesn’t stick to them so clean or dirty track they grip the same.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      We have a couple of cars with the Paul Gage urethane tires (just b/c we couldn't find the stock ones in stock anywhere). You are right, they do have slightly more gription, and do stay cleaner longer. They do need to be trued just like the stock Carrera tires though.
      The house rules for our slot club prohibit urethane and silicone tires, however (among other rules, such as no aftermarket magnets, no removing interior, etc.) so that we don't get into a situation where guys feel the need to spend more time working on their cars at home than they do actually racing them at the track. So, those cars with urethanes we don't run on club night.

  • @charlesanderson32
    @charlesanderson32 11 วันที่ผ่านมา

    As a Kid, my Dad was a big racer in Atlanta, Ga. He used to take fast motors and take ths armature out and rewind them. This made them very fast... He was very Competitive. I Miss My Dad!

  • @Paul_Hardy
    @Paul_Hardy 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've just dug out my old Scalextric so my granddaughter can try it. She's never seen one before, but she's showing interest in my R/C buggies so I thought what the hell. I came to TH-cam to find the best way to clean the tracks as mine are a bit tarnished, I'm now here watching video's on tyre tuning and thinking "hmmm, I really need to do this". Great vid.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Good to hear kids interested in real hobbies these days instead of just video games. How did the tire tuning work out?

    • @Paul_Hardy
      @Paul_Hardy 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby Yeah, I'm really glad to see she has interests beyond tiktok. I haven't done the tuning yet, but I'll let you know how it goes haha. Cheers.

  • @eaxnitro
    @eaxnitro 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This is an awesome video.
    So simple. Straight forward.
    Thanks for putting it together.
    I've just found this amazing hobby and your video is helpful.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Good to hear, and thanks for watching.

  • @Saturn2888
    @Saturn2888 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I just saw these slot cars at a random visit to a hobby shop. Looks like a lot of fun for my kids! I'd like to know more like why I might want one over another and how my kids can enjoy these.

  • @ryanquarles1833
    @ryanquarles1833 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for this video. I just got my son a Carrera 1/32 digital for his birthday this past week and we love it. There’s really not any videos showing how to do it like this.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Great to hear you and your son are having a good time, and I'm happy this is reaching our intended audience. Which Carrera set did you get?

  • @rlpittsjr
    @rlpittsjr 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    My son got a Carrera First Mario Cart track and two cars. Seemed intuitive to the gears out of the he box. I saw a difference right away. Thanks for the show of how to tune the braided contacts.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      You bet! Glad it helped.

  • @DrDixonBhD
    @DrDixonBhD 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Appreciate Your Kindness and Love of Slotcar Racing To Share These Tuning Tips!!! Can't Wait To See How Much Faster My Audi #7 R10 TDI LMP1 Will FLY!!!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Cool! Be sure to record your before and after lap times so you can post your improvement.

  • @ronaldnordquist2215
    @ronaldnordquist2215 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I like your practical approach; the technique to get around that banked curve was perfect as well as flaring and bending the braids with a hobby screw driver and the magnetic dish for a clod like me is an excellent idea! The tire truing of one tire at a time is an excellent idea to place less stress on the motor as well as removing debris form the rear tires with your thumb before each heat. I would like to see your "hard liner" tune ups.

    • @slater4041
      @slater4041 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We really don't have any hardliner tune-ups but every so often we will take axles and motors out to remove build up of lint, hair, paper clips. You know, shit like that. Then we will do some lube work and possibly replace brushes, keels, and replace or tune the tires. Remember that worn and shorter brushes are less affective.

  • @josephdeffendoll3056
    @josephdeffendoll3056 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    They make tire truers for the hard core racers. Plus keeping your tires in the freezer for long term storage is a good idea. The brand of tires is called Kelly.
    Also we use tire glue to keep the cars from coming off the track. Thanks.

  • @matthewmckenzie504
    @matthewmckenzie504 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I always sand tyres together, to keep them the same diameter, also rounding edges improved handling. Measure to check sanding is even I use Hudy, Verneya caliper.

  • @yod6083
    @yod6083 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fantastic advices! Got them applied to my d124 carrera cars and wow! no more fears to slot out even at speeds an order of magnitude higher than those I was used to!!
    Great video, many thanks

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Excellent! Thanks for sharing.

  • @carltonslaine7756
    @carltonslaine7756 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very very interesting my first time watching this I love scalextric racing the cars look so real and I love the way you explain how to maintain your car on the track and to improve your times to.
    Keep up the the work
    And once again excellent video 👍
    From England West Midlands Wolverhampton
    Take care be safe

  • @RodVaranese
    @RodVaranese 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Dude, very helpful. That was awesome and I like your music.

  • @RackwitzG
    @RackwitzG 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your tips are great for a start and really no effort with great effect. You can do two more things to make things a bit better.
    Pros like to sand camber into their tires. The outside edge diameter is slightly smaller than inside (conical shapte). That gives full contact of the tiresurface with the track when the car tilts in a turn. You can add camber by minutely tilting the car to the outside while on the sand paper.
    The other thing they like to do is seal the front tires with super glue or nail polish. That gives minimum traction to the front tires where traction is not prefierred.
    Of course you know all this. Just thought this worth adding, since it only costs a bit of wifey's nail polish. ;)

  • @NeoIsrafil
    @NeoIsrafil 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I SOOO miss this. Uses to run these in the 90s, but the track here in Vegas shut down. Ive still got all my cars and control from when I raced back then, but no track. :(

  • @subaruthug
    @subaruthug 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Good vid, well presented and good advice. With the braids, don't bend them too far up or they tend to lift the guide out of the slot. And I'd true the rear tyres before oiling, that way the bits of rubber don't stick to everything as much.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Good advice.

  • @MrMackanno
    @MrMackanno 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The best thing I learned was I'll set-up a dedicated tire truer with an old Control Unit I have gathering dust. Thanks!

    • @Gurblash
      @Gurblash 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Couldn't agree more! I immediately made plans for my old scaley powerbase from the 80s to make a tire truer! Can't wait to get off work now.

  • @brianroberts2402
    @brianroberts2402 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow! We've come a long way in 50 years. We never went that fast. I was happy with my small aurora fx.

  • @53glowe
    @53glowe 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very helpful...thankyou. Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺 👍

  • @ryankrueger4314
    @ryankrueger4314 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great clip, just getting into the hobby myself. BTW, the fins on the rear underside of the car is called the "rear diffuser"

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the info. I knew it had a proper name.

  • @PhilHenDrums
    @PhilHenDrums 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    All good stuff! Another simple thing you can use to clean the tires (instead of a roll of masking tape turned inside out) is a lint roller. It is easy to roll both tires at once. When the roller gets all dirty, just peel off a layer, and you're good to go again.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Great tip! I think I have some of those buried in the bottom a the coat closet somewhere.

    • @bradsanders6954
      @bradsanders6954 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Try alcohol,it really cleans tires quick.

  • @jaspajones7045
    @jaspajones7045 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks man! We just built a track. Been mostly using 1/24 scale digital Porsche by carrera. Noticed one car held to the track better. Swapped rear tires and then the other car was the better faster more grip. I need to do this same process to both. Even them out. Thanks.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Let us know how it turns out.

    • @jaspajones7045
      @jaspajones7045 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby will do tomorrow

  • @RichardMullins-hl3rf
    @RichardMullins-hl3rf 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Removing the casting flash on the rims help. True them just like the tires

  • @josephstanczak4340
    @josephstanczak4340 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video, provides a solid start in tuning. Next steps I would add would be to either true front tires and/or coat them (I use Future, but whatever slicks them up), and get rid of slop in the axles (a little more advanced). These two with your tips will make your home set cars zing!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree with truing the front tires. I don't know of any good method of doing that without a truing machine, though.

  • @SlotCraftMaster
    @SlotCraftMaster 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Greate video, love your KISS princible approach!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks so much!

  • @Apicbymike
    @Apicbymike 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This was very helpful! Thank you!

  • @danmclean7375
    @danmclean7375 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    4:55 lol like... Garbage.. It's *sooo truuuue*...sandpaper method + tape = genius (Ive been using a fine-file and a licked thumb and probably just made it worse..)
    Johnnie my dude - super helpful video, thank you!
    *subscribed*

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad to hear it can help you out.

  • @iscream4761
    @iscream4761 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    super interseting and well done video! what about the magnet(s) under the car? i notice in f1 cars the magnet is MUCH stronger and gives a lot of grip

  • @martinhansen6466
    @martinhansen6466 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Try loosen the screws in the body, to give the boby some "flex".

  • @davidh2709
    @davidh2709 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    So do you notice a spike in views after Christmas? Got a new setup and now I'm here to make it better! Thank you for the video!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Definitely a surge in views. I was expecting it but not so soon. Started Christmas day about 10:00am. Let us know how your tuning went. Merry Christmas.

    • @dreyn7780
      @dreyn7780 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well, look for 3 different driving techniques that correspond to low speed, middle speed and high speed performance from the modern slot car.
      Sometimes the trigger operation is divided into 3 zones or sections of the trigger.
      These cars will wheelspin based on trademark performance or components.
      For example Ford is famous for wheelspinning performance.
      Go buy THAT car.
      Superchargers ALSO introduce wheelspinning action.
      It's YOUR job to learn the brands trademark performance style.
      You told us to shutup cause you knew it all.
      (we're all born that way).

    • @davidh9653
      @davidh9653 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@dreyn7780 huh? I saw talking about the spike in views

  • @danmurn6040
    @danmurn6040 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks well done. Just getting back into hobby after 50 years

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Nice! Going with digital this time?

    • @danmurn6040
      @danmurn6040 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      What do need to get to set up the track to record track lap results. Thanks

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@danmurn6040 The first requirement to have lap counting feature is to have the Carrera control unit part #30352. That's the track piece that the power and controllers plug into that also incorporates the sensors to detect car crossings. If you bought any Carrera track set within the past five years or so then it came with that unit.
      Second, the race management software:
      The one featured in this video is HSSRMS. Info on that software and how to connect it to the track is here:
      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
      Another option is the Carrera App Connect software for running on smart phones and tablets. Info is here:
      www.carrera-toys.com/en/2747/race-app
      Hope this helps. Let me know if you have any more questions. Happy New Year!

    • @danmurn6040
      @danmurn6040 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby thanks very much. Modified my super bird. It work fantastic thanks.

    • @danmurn6040
      @danmurn6040 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Do not have the digital track ,analog for now.

  • @gearhead366
    @gearhead366 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Tire truing.... I was at a race once where the cars were provided by the track owner. He had a group of cars that we all tried out. One car was much worse handling than the others. I decided to true the tires. It then became the fastest car by far. I had to then true the tires of all the cars. Then the whole field had fairly consistent lap times.

  • @statman29neb
    @statman29neb หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great and helpful information!

  • @JayDee-jx4ew
    @JayDee-jx4ew 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Wow thanks another for making this video. I've learned a lot and now can get my nephew's Ferrari to handle better.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Cool. Let us know how it works out for you.

  • @TheChemist45
    @TheChemist45 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I also though have been noticing and learning more. Like The collectable Rusty Volkswagon set. Believe it or not Out of the box the VW Bug is fast lol and holds on decent. Yes the tires are a Bit skinny But treaded so I didnt want to true them. Love your vid!! Keep them coming!

  • @bodomeyer3397
    @bodomeyer3397 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello, a very nice video for beginner in Slot Racing. Many greetings from Germany😀

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the comment. And greetings from the USA.

  • @lrosas8088
    @lrosas8088 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video tutorial. Thank you

  • @sigmamansslotcars1415
    @sigmamansslotcars1415 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video guys! Only thing I would say is a wet sponge is great for cleaning tyres.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Good idea. Probably something to implement as licking my thumb to clean the tires is a bit unsanitary.

    • @sigmamansslotcars1415
      @sigmamansslotcars1415 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby I lick the tires if I forget my sponge.😄

  • @giangigiangi-fq1ep
    @giangigiangi-fq1ep 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very nice and usefull video, thanks

  • @masterchief586
    @masterchief586 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    That was good and informative 👏 👍 I am more of the Carrera Porsche line of 1/32 scale guys. Limited room size. Cheers 🍻

  • @falconmatero2926
    @falconmatero2926 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video, cheers from Australia!!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for the comment, and cheers from the USA. BTW: What beer do you drink down under when watching slot car videos?

    • @falconmatero2926
      @falconmatero2926 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby Lol, I personally don't drink but us Aussies normally drink Tooheys draft, Carlton dry and there may be a few of us left that still drink Fosters! Cheers again from the land down under mate!

  • @flippinthrough
    @flippinthrough 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Cool video. I am going to try some of this stuff on my new AFX HO set. My girls and I are having a blast, but the little one is PISSED because her car is slower.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Haven't tried truing tires on HO scale before. Let us know how that goes. Is the little one's car not fast, or just not handle the turns as well as the others?

  • @craigmonteforte1478
    @craigmonteforte1478 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cool video btw i am a retired woodworker and whenever we sharpen our tools getting the backside of a chisel or whatever perfectly flat is critical a old trick to hel get that done is to move the part in a figure 8 motion on top of the abrasive i was wondering if that would help true up the tires faster ?

  • @hitthebricks5502
    @hitthebricks5502 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very informative! Brand new to this and it was just what I needed :)

  • @MR.TOYBOX
    @MR.TOYBOX 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Do you and or can you temporarily put the front tires on the rear so you can true the front tires as well? Seems like if it helps rear tire grip it would help the front tires also?

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Front tire grip isn't exactly desirable for slot cars. As a matter of fact, the less grip they have, the better. However, if the fronts are real bad as far as their (run-out/out-of-round) goes, they can negatively affect the handling. In those cases, shaving the front tires down a bit can help. Some cars have the same size wheels on tires on front and back, in which case swapping to the rear to true them can be done, but other cars don't have the same size front to rear. Need to be careful as sometimes moving a tire from one rim to another immediately puts it out of tune. Ideally the tires are trued on the same wheel they will be running on.

  • @saeedabduljabar2999
    @saeedabduljabar2999 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    How do you make a car kick out while while making a turn on a.decrease in radius turnand still stay on the track

  • @PabloGonzalez-hv3td
    @PabloGonzalez-hv3td 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm surprised motor break in isn't a major concern when in the RC world it's a top priority.
    I'd be curious what a similar break in routine to RC would do to lap times.

  • @raylouis
    @raylouis 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Can you put a plastic pin in the center bottom of the car to keep the rear end from sliding? That way you would have front guide pin and rear guide pin.

  • @skippyjones4195
    @skippyjones4195 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey guys great video I would like Racing videos Thank you for sharing Take care ✌💪👍

  • @jonnie2bad
    @jonnie2bad 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    cool setup, wish i had a friend with a basement like this.

    • @swayzeetheking
      @swayzeetheking 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Cool hotline profile pic, bro

  • @walterhorton871
    @walterhorton871 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Love your Tuning of a new slot car tires. Also I really love your track layout is it out of the box or custom, can you share if?

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  หลายเดือนก่อน

      The track is custom. Carrera sets are only 20-24 feet of track, so a lot more track was acquired to create the layout you see in the video. The track plan can be found here along with a couple other layouts we've run:
      subhumanracing.net/carrera-layouts/
      Check out any of our newer videos to see our latest setup which is larger.

  • @mt-xx1tt
    @mt-xx1tt 5 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I'm a rc head and I'm hear as my son got slotcars for xmas so obusly I need to make them go faster haha

    • @zombanator3000
      @zombanator3000 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      As all good parents, they need to earn that win.

    • @dreyn7780
      @dreyn7780 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Them meaning rc cars.

  • @getswb
    @getswb 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well done. Will implement immediately. Thank you.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Cool. Let us know how it works out for you.

  • @EdwardChew
    @EdwardChew 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey thank you for the tips. What timing system did you use on the screen?

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      The timing system we use is called HSSRMS. As far as I know it only runs on Windows PCs and uses a serial-to-usb conversion cable for connection to PC. Another popular system is SmartRace which can run on Mac and also tablets and smart phones (but not Windows). That requires the Carrera Bluetooth module for connectivity.
      URL for SmartRace: www.smartrace.de/en/
      The link I had for HSSRMS download is no longer working. Not sure if it is available any longer.

    • @EdwardChew
      @EdwardChew 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@johnniehobby Thank you. I'll have a look 🙏🙏

  • @TheChemist45
    @TheChemist45 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I been into slots all my life Im 56 I started with 1/64 as many of us have. I have a 100ft speedway like Daytona. Great Vid Like to see you work on some older fly cars and Scalextric. I put a 40k shark motor in my Steve Mqueen 908 Porsche with racing slicks & aluminum Rims Jesus Night and day lol

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I started out with HO scale as well. Still have a ton of my old Tyco track and cars. Might drag them back out some day, but not looking forward to having to clean all that track. I remember as a kid every winter setting it up and going through a bunch of pencil erasers getting all the corrosion off the rails. Seemed to take forever to get it clean enough so the cars would to all the way around without stopping. Now I'm spoiled with the stainless steel rails that don't corrode.

    • @TheChemist45
      @TheChemist45 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hey Thanks for reply. I just ordered a scalextric Mini Cooper

  • @LONGDRIVES
    @LONGDRIVES 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Very helpful thanks!

  • @RaySweeting
    @RaySweeting 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love the title.

  • @limehuzki
    @limehuzki 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm starting to wonder if I could tune my 4wdmini for slot car track use, or put a 4wdmini motor into a slot car

  • @wrecklessdaath
    @wrecklessdaath 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    can you add a capacitor to a car to keep any other car draw from effectiving you car? or do these not do that like the tyco tracks? i havent slotcared for a long time

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I am assuming that you are referring to those situations where one car de-slots and then the remaining car on the track to then gets more voltage and then subsequently flies off the track because it all-of-a-sudden gets faster. That isn't an issue with digital slot cars. Actually it isn't an issue with analog slot cars either if they employ separate power feed from the transformer for each lane (like Carrera Evolution), or use a regulated power supply (which Tyco apparently doesn't use) that maintains a constant voltage regardless of the load.

    • @wrecklessdaath
      @wrecklessdaath 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      yeah i had no idea about digal slot cars thats pretty cool..now i have a ton of ideas that probably wouldn't fit with regulations or the rules

  • @whome7004
    @whome7004 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Man the Models you have displayed and the one used in the braking in are so bad Ass compared to my old car I had back in the day! Tracks are few and far between these days, Heck I would definitely buy one and even being the beer if you were close by! Like all things from the days around the time my folks split My Slot Car along with anything RC Help me find that tiny Happy place back then, but now I just want to turn some laps to get a car and Enjoy! If you don't mind me asking how much is a small personal track like yours, Man its perfect! I always thought about the next hobby shop that goes under (Sadly)I was going to try to get the track to Have my own! I consider u a lucky man being able to run when the time is right! I Subscribed I can't believe I have not hit a slot channel before now being That fall in the Category of Childhood happiness Stuff for me and I don't know if I m thinking I going to get a do over or what my time spent on utub I'm looking at Mini versions of everything , if it takes a controller/remote I watching and end up buying, Glad I hit your channel U REOPENED a part of my mind, that I sealed just to not be think about it, wish I had not forgotten, happy to Be reminded, matter fact wair is my Now Ventage cars,Well if I find them I I probably would be driving Gosh Something that survived me and the great Rebellion! That would be the only work toy,but U no better than a toy to lasted all these years, lucky being misplaced but Gosh my Big Fishing tackle, Imean slot mobile work shop I would have seen it around, so I need to keep a eye out for my stuff at step Brother and Friends house I bet I will find it back then step brothers and Best Friend were mad with extremely Sticky fingers ,and Would not be first discovered Treasure I have had to Take back 25 years later! Turn some Fast Laps for me Show me the cool stuff So I Got to get it then hunt down to track any leads

  • @josephaguilar3796
    @josephaguilar3796 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great vid guys! Found my oooold afx track in the attic(thought my folks threw it out) and have been playing with my kiddos since quarantine! Need to give my cars some tlc but I'm having an issue finding parts. Any advice would be great!!!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm not too familiar with AFX. Possibly check out the channel titled "slotcar crazy." He deals with all HO scale stuff and might be able to point you in the right direction with respect to parts for older AFX chassis.

  • @DiamondDaveCH44
    @DiamondDaveCH44 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Please explain to me how a "Banked Turn" will "pull the brushes away"

  • @skippyjones4195
    @skippyjones4195 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I can't wait to get started it's going to take me a bit because I'm on a fixed income but it's fine I'll get it meanwhile I'll hangout with you guys ok Take Care 👍✌💪

  • @whatiswe
    @whatiswe 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    WoW great video. Thank you!!!

  • @BenBuss-o6r
    @BenBuss-o6r ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi. Nice intro! Thanks. I saw that your races stats was projected on your wall. Can you tell use how you did it? Thanks again.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  ปีที่แล้ว

      Are you asking about the hardware or the lap scoring software?

  • @landsurfer66
    @landsurfer66 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent and informative vid. My cars run so much better now!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Excellent. I'm happy to hear that it helped you out.

  • @joesephknoettgen3551
    @joesephknoettgen3551 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I was wondering what kind of track You have specifically? It looks like alot of fun!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      The track is Carrera digital 132/124. It is designated 132/124 because the track itself is 1:24 scale in size, but you can run 1:32 scale cars on it as well as the larger 24th scale. The cars shown in this video are 1:32.

  • @Friskee62
    @Friskee62 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have 11 Carrera DTM's so far, one more. We have special races with just DTM's. Each racer picks out their own car from the 12. Whatever car is chosen at the start of the race stays at that designated lane. We have 4 lanes. That way each racer gets to race all the cars chosen...

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Car and driver rotation is a great way to run with analog. Good call on running DTMs, too. Plenty of selection and they handle great.

  • @TechTiger1007
    @TechTiger1007 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey guys. do you have any videos on how to rebuild when crashes and ware happen?

  • @Weirdbus
    @Weirdbus 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    great info. thanks for the detail. going to be passing thru Detroit area, know any slot car shops to check out?

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      If you will be north of Detroit Great Lakes Hobby in Sterling Heights carries Carrera and Scalextric.

  • @urrugames4062
    @urrugames4062 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing vid!!!!!

  • @RUSHGEEK2112
    @RUSHGEEK2112 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Will evolution bodies fit digital chassis? I messed up my digital 911 RSR body and want to replace the body only. I figure the most inexpensive way is to get the identical car in evolution and swop out the body. BTW, great channel.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Absolutely! We've done the same plenty of times.

  • @smitty929929
    @smitty929929 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome vid! What flavor tires do you guys use? Urethane or Silicone and what maker? It is crazy overwhelming researching tires! Thanks!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      When possible we always use the stock Carrera tires. If those aren't available we'll use urethane tires. The urethane tires are slightly more grippy than stock (which I think might be butyl rubber) and don't need re-tuning as often. We never use silicone tires, though. Do an internet search for Paul Gage urethanes and you should find several places you can order them from.

  • @diggitallindadirt3283
    @diggitallindadirt3283 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks just got new track good info from experiences

  • @marcelschweikart7594
    @marcelschweikart7594 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome video, just one question. What program are you using to track your lap times?

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The software is called HSSRMS ( Race Management System) written by a guy named Bruce Yingling. I'm pretty sure you can still download it for free from several places on the internet.

  • @b.h1362
    @b.h1362 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    What software do you use to monitor the cars like lap time, lap count etc..

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That is a program named HSSRMS, developed by Bruce Yingling. Info on downloading the software and also for buying or building interface cables is here:
      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

  • @jaypitchford9020
    @jaypitchford9020 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Looking to get into this hobby. I am going to go with the Carreras track and would love some advice on the best set for the money. Looking more for track value at this point over car value in the set. Any suggestions? Want to go digital 132 I feel. Love this video great job!

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Most of the sets available now seem to have about all the same amount of track (1 double lane change, control unit/power track, 8 to 10 1/60 curves, 11 straight tracks) so from a track perspective there aren't any that are bigger bargain than others.
      The biggest difference in the sets is the number of cars that come with the set (some 2 and some 3) and whether they are wired or wireless controllers. I would recommend going with a set with the wireless controllers as freedom to move anywhere around the track and race at the same time is definitely a plus. Getting the wireless controllers, receiver, and charging stations is worth more than an extra car.
      These are two sets that come with wireless:
      Carrera 30005 GT Race Stars Set, Digital 132 w/Wireless Controllers and Lights
      Carrera 30196 DTM Championship Digital 1/32 Set w/Wireless Controllers
      All the cars that come with these are excellent. The DTMs are quick and handle really well. I have a Ferrari 488 but haven't run it yet, but if it runs anywhere near as well as its predecessor (Ferrari 458) then it's a darn good car as well.

    • @jaypitchford9020
      @jaypitchford9020 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for taking the time to help me out. I have been looking at those two sets. I am thinking of adding a pit lane and the blue tooth app connect. Again thank you so much. I can’t wait to get started.

  • @codypierce8562
    @codypierce8562 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    What type of oil can I use cuz I have a gun oil bottle that I wanna use so is that oil ok it lubes up my slide on my gun so will that work to do the same on the axles

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You can use gun oil but if you aren't sure if it is safe for plastics then be careful not to get it anywhere but the metal axle and bushing.

  • @johnellison3030
    @johnellison3030 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Does tuning the tyres and changing the profile size affect the driving and handling of a car like it would in the real world ?

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      The overall height of the tire is reduced a little bit each time they are tuned this way. Eventually the car will require new tires as a reduction in top speed may get noticeable. Also, the chassis can end up getting too close to the track where it starts to scrape on banked turns or elevation changes in the track.

  • @johnbower7452
    @johnbower7452 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Back when I used to race Scalextric they always said to run the car in for half an hour too. Just gently like a real car.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      We're not too good about following the "gently" part.

    • @slater4041
      @slater4041 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think I have broken spoilers off within five minutes. So, yeah...what he said.

  • @jeckek9936
    @jeckek9936 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Tbh, investing in a decent small home lathe and making your own tires seems the way to go considering how poor those out of box tires are, more so when you take into account how much this hobby costs vs quality of the tires.. Edit. have you ever tried adding small disk weights to the front or back/sides of the cars to assist with down-force ( Gaming mice for PCs often come with these), could help when you increase speed and need to offset that increase. Edit 2: It could help sanding the inner side of the rear wheels to assist with cornering/prevent rear end sliding.

  • @vlayog
    @vlayog 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Greet video. Thank you! You sakes for suggestions for more video. I am interested in tuning a car after taling out the magnet. Wherry and hoe much lead do you put in the car to be able to race with it.

    • @johnniehobby
      @johnniehobby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We're not real experienced with no-mag tuning. However, there are a few videos on TH-cam that address that exact topic (don't remember which ones, though). Search around for "no-mag slot cars" or something similar and hopefully you find the info you are looking for.

    • @vlayog
      @vlayog 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnniehobby Thanks very much. I have searched before, but I certainly wil give it another try.

  • @johnyannelli2480
    @johnyannelli2480 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome again!

  • @jorgeluis494
    @jorgeluis494 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Buen detalle para la traccion. Que número de lija #!? usaron saludos