Let's start with dimensions again, we'll look at both HO and S scales. A dragstrip is a little more straightforward, or is it? The clocked portion is 1/4 mile long - 15 1/8 feet for HO and 20 5/8 feet in 1/64th scale. But then there's the staging and Bleach Pit where they warm up the Slicks, and the track wouldn't be complete without a Christmas Tree! And there's the runout area - after the Speed Trap - where the chutes pop open and the engines shut down. They don't have to be too long, a foot on one end and 2 or 3 for the run out - so now you're talking almost 20 to 25 feet. And then there's the return road - NO! we won't even go there!!! OK - realistically, for my first project, since it's from scratch and not just putting 9" straights end to end - let's make a 1/10 mile track.

I'm thinking of doing this right! I'm not sure of the base yet, at first I thought a regular 2x6 piece of lumber. I thought, just cut a couple of grooves and stretch some copper wire, paint it and you're done. Naw, that's too easy, anyway copper oxidizes, the surface will be questionable, etc. OK, how about Formica - not the shiny stuff, something with texture, and you can buy bulk Nickel-Silver train track - lots of surface area, no oxidation. Cut the Formica in strips, maybe some shallow grooves in the base so everything is the right depth/height - now you're cooking! And some of the fun and real excitement is when it comes to building the electronics for the staging, Christmas Tree and Speed Trap.

Stay tuned - and send encouraging words and suggestions if you have any!

Copyright @ 2001 GenesisArt
Art is sole property of the Artist
WebSite Design by Guido Roth (no special programs used!)
Last modified 2/28/2001 (Happy Birthday Son!)
WebMaster