Official drag track specs?
Just out of curiosity, are there certain track specifications(eg:overall length & downhill angle) that are followed universally when building an "official" diecast dragstrip?
Discussion
Interesting. I can't help but to think that if there were an "official standard" for track specs, then individual car performance statistics could be measured & compared. Then again, I suppose it would be difficult to standardize track specs with the variations in scale of the cars themselves(mostly regarding "width").
Any thoughts?
I know Jason was trying to get something like that going...there's a thread around here somewhere. He had some specs for a short track that was more or less buildable by everyone without costing too much and that would fit in people's homes. I know the one factor that dictated my track more than anything is the space I have. I only have 20 feet of space to work with, so my track had to fit within that restriction. Guys like Jobe that have a shop get the luxury of a 50-foot track.
I agree that a universal spec would help keep data a lot more accurate, but to be honest there will always be too much variance in how tracks are built, even if we're all using the same measurements. Build quality, track type...those are two big ones that enter my head.
I think it's a good idea but one that I think would be hard to coordinate and maintain quality. Although, on a personal note, I love seeing photos of tracks people built after reading an article here...and even better when I see how they improve on what is a stupid simple design. It turns out a few planks and some hinges can go a long, long way.
My actual track production is holding me up. I decided to start the Hardcore Downhill series while I was waiting.
The track designs vary greatly and the biggest factor is the room you have to work with.
Send me an email and we'll see what we can design you you. Jason@texasdiecastracing.com
Nope! Comes down to your personal thoughts, space, etc. I built my first track off of Brian's plans here on the site.
I then modified it making it shorter so my kiddos could use it easier and then made it longer etc. I've experimented with one long slope, two slopes, etc.