The making of Pleasuredome 3

New model car racing track

"Pleasuredome 3" is the name of my new model car racing track.

This article gives you a first impression on how the circuit will look like and shows you which preparations you need to take to create a permanent racetrack.

Scalextric Sport

A few months ago I decided to renew my racetrack. First, I had to make the choice what surface I wanted. My first two circuits were built with track pieces of Ninco. I am a very satisfied user of Ninco cars and track system, but I wanted something new. All major manufacturers (SCX, Scalextric and Carrera) were serious options.

After I had tested the new Sport track of Scalextric, a decision was easy to take. The new track of Scalextric is superb. The refined surface of the Scalextric track is suitable for cars of all manufacturers. With the new Sport system it is even possible to have a Fly model on the track! Check out the article on this web-site for more information about the Scalextric Sport system.

Layout

Before you start to design a track you have to decide whether or not you want the same slot length for both lanes. You can make both lanes equal only if you create a kind of 8-figure track or use crossing sections. If you do not use these options you get a track that has different lap lengths. This won't be a problem if you divide the races into heats or to put the slowest car in the outer slot lane.
For the new track I decided to use the exiting "racing curve crossovers" which are new in the collection of Scalextric.

Stop-and-go track

It is wise to test a few track plans before setting up the more permanent track. After hours of racing you will get experienced in what you like and dislike. Most people like a track with a long straight. For a long straight you need at least six or seven standard straight track sections. I prefer stop-and-go tracks. This kind of track includes fast straight and full speed curves combined with sharp turns.

Table

I have built a table of 4 x 1 meter. The tabletop rests on a casing that is fixed at the wall. For the tabletop I used 10 mm mdf wood. On the mdf I have put soundproofing material.
I decided to use a mirrored landscape photograph as background.

More information

Pleasuredome 3 - part two