I would add NEW TIRES to that list. I went with Bobkats urethane tires and they helped a lot. Checking the magnet is a must for new cars, 5 out of my 7 had the metal spacer, not the magnet side down to the rails. Also if you go over 35' of track, like I did right out of the box, get power jumpers. I had 3 double lane changers and one lane is not working properly, and 2 cars are running like they are out of fuel on and off, but the fuel is off. I switched to another new CU and same thing. I even moved the CU closer to within 3/60's away to the offending lane changer, without jumpers, and still had problems. I have 1 jumper in place and it did not solve it totally but it does seem better so I'm waiting for more jumper clips on 45' of track for now.
Good Video, go for more! For me, some curves of radius 2, 3 and 4 are very Important too, also on short tracks. Brings some more challenge and fluent course.
Totally agree. I also bought these 5 items along with the track set. They are a must have for sure. I would also add the software trackplanner (Autorennbahnplaner) along with the C3D-Viewer for testing track layouts on the computer before building them.
Joe you nailed it buddy!! Agree with all. I shake my head when I see guardrails and no shoulders. Just me and no disrespect. Catch fence is a great addition not just to protect cars from flying off but makes the track look better. Thanks for the video!!
Thank you for checking out my video and commenting. Everything I post is based on my opinion and experiences. Never any disrespect intended. This space is a safe place. I Encourage everyone to keep the convo going and share their opinions. Thanks again brother, glad you liked it
WOW Joe that was awesome! I thought I was ready to buy my starter set and get going. BUT! You nailed it. My credit card will melt down along with my wife and still I will want more, more MORE. I love this hobby. 😆🤔🤣
Love your list. I would add a greater variety of corners. I love a circuit with complex combinations of curves in the corners. I can totally live without banked curves, but having #1, #2, #3 and #4 corners make it much more interesting. I have curves that use some of each. Plus using the #4 corners allow sections of track to go at 15-degree increments.
@@davidtvedte1337 Thanks for commenting. Corners are a big factor in track flow for sure. My new layout will incorporate what you mentioned. Much appreciated
Ive recently simplified my track, its still big and takes up all space, but no more overs and unders and uphills and downhills. Some cars will only work on a perfectly smooth track, and a complicated track seems to lose connectivity easily, but mainly I want to see the car all the way around when racing. I like the idea of combing corner shapes, Ive got one corner like that.
3:18 I’m making all of my additional shoulders out of foam board and covering them with joint compound. At certain corners, I’m angling them so that they act as rumble strips. In other spots, I’m making them smooth and glossy- if your car goes wide on those spots, it’s more likely to deslot.
Hey that's great, I'd love to see a video of that. The benefit of making your own addons is the customization you can get for your needs. I'm not that crafty. Right on!
@@IrrerasCarrera I’ve taken a LOT of inspiration from @BoonesSlotCarGarage, @garagemakerguy1808, & @KenSchmud. I’m nowhere near Boone’s level of detail and realism, but I’m having fun with adding to the realism of the track as well as track hacks. I knew I didn’t want my track sitting above the grade of the table and was planning on tracing the entire track and routing it out. Using foamboard and joint compound is a genius solution; especially if you know a little about finishing cement. You can texture it however you want. I’m looking forward to adding some gravel traps soon!
@@IrrerasCarrera ua-cam.com/video/N_N2m9hPagA/v-deo.htmlsi=gekvDySxLg1n_ajh In this video, Boone creates rumble strips that are really more of a curb. I used a similar technique, but I cut it pretty flat and where it goes around the track and left it about 1/8” above track level. After laying it out with a soldering iron, I used an x-acto knife to cut the top of my rumble strip section into a sort of saw tooth pattern. It sounds really neat when cars slide wide and run over the rumble strips. It also takes some of the advantage out of the outside lane. (As opposed to just letting cars wall-ride like Ross Chastain at Martinsville.)
Great advice. I eventually purchased all the stuff you talked about. I have only noticed wireless laitance is on first throttle press. after that there is no problem. If your just having fun with friends $250 controllers are not required. I also removed a lot of my guard rail in favor of shoulders.
Great stuff! the delay might be from the controllers in sleep mode. Once the start/ all lights are on, I usually tell the racers to press the throttle to make sure they are out of sleep mode. I do find that one of my controllers still lags. It could be cause of frequency interference from my studio lights. Just a thought. Thanks for your comments :)
Good video, yes all essential really to get the best out of the digital system, although I would say the Truspeed controller (and an extension wire) is a better upgrade than the wireless controller :)
Totally agree on your points Even a small track needs a check lane as it adds more immersion into the digital world plus it’s on the Smart race app so why not
Hahaha Joe, loved the bloopers at the end... they hit hard 🤣 I have my fair share of moments during filming... Great video as always man! P.S. Also, just got your email from awhile ago... so sorry 🤣
No worries brother!!! Thanks so much. I like exposing my air brain over thinking everything. Plus, its all scripted so theres no reason it should take me so long lolll
O man It's a good thing we went analog! Seriously good info I agree with the borders and the controllers you have to well I would have to have the trigger type I can't stand the thumb style!
The problem with wireless controllers is latency. For a home track for fun, the freedom of wireless controllers are cool, but even though the latency isn't much or that noticeable, it becomes apparent when you are "professional" racing. I would go with wired controllers and just get a cord extender. As for all the other things you suggested does make good sense.
The Carrera wireless do have lag issues. I haven’t noticed any with the frankenslot ones run v3.18. Plus you can plug them into if you want. I haven’t seen anyone run a Carrera track for professional use. All are wood track that I’ve seen.
Sounds family, years ago we had a basic Scalextric set. A few weeks later it was 8 meter x 2 meter . In the last few weeks, I bought a starter N scale train for fun with grandson. It's now 2. 4 meter x 560mm double loop with a 5 track yard area and 4 trains .. There should be a warning on the box . " May cause addiction and financial drain "
Great video. If you do want wireless I’d definitely recommend the frankenslot v3.18 controllers so much smoother and adjustable then the Carrera ones and you can use the wired or wireless.
I really wish I had a little more space to run a digital 1/32. I have a carrera go track. I'll likely try to upgrade although looks like it's hard to even switch out controllers on that system. I'm gonna try an HO track, too, like I had in the 80's
@@Bluepanther80 My table is 12 x 8 feet but I started with a 12x6. You can go smaller if you use more overlaps than me. Controllers are really easy to swap out or connect. Send me an email or join the Slot Yard Discord if you'd like some help with planning a layout :) Thanks for watching!
the only thing i do not have is the check lane,first thing i added was the pitlane and start lights. both my sets came with wireless controllers,the only thing i did next was add some lights and scenery to the track
@@joaosilva6756 If you're loosing power in the middle its most likely because you need to add jumper cables from the CU to parts of your track. I have 3 jumps on mine. One every 10 pieces or so. My voltage changes depending on the type of cars I use Carrera Digital 1:33 @15v 1:24@ 18v and anolog cars at 12v Hope this helps
I'm still using them now. They do the job. Unfortunately all three of them perform differently. It can get annoying but this is my experience. Thanks so much for commenting.
Any controller, is better than a flimsy squeaky Carrera thumb controller. I bought em and never use em. I bet they cost 5.00 to build. The dongles and aps? I just race, I dont need any of that. Ive really tried to make Slot-it cars run well on my carrera track, as of yet none of them work for long. They are so fast and so quiet and neat, but they just wont keep running. Granted I dont want to work on cars all the time.
@@bradsanders6954 If you never use a controller other than Carrera, you'll be good. Its when you get your hands on a better made one that changes the game. Thanks for sharing!
My opinion 1: ok 2: All smart race options are paid, I suggest starting with open lap (free) 3: ok 4: the Carrera controls are all terrible, invest your money on a good controller(scp2, truspeed, frankenslot.....) 5: ok 6: ok
Your opinion is as valid as anyone else. I'm glad we can have this convo and I Appreciate your input. Everyone brings their own experience to the table and that's what I love about this hobby. Thanks so much
Good video Joe. I agree on all points except the Carrera controller I’m a trigger man, can’t stand the thumb controller. I’ve set a alarm for Saturday morning, I’ll be there 👍
@@PNWSlotcarDad the smart race app gives you fuel meters built in. However, I Love the way they look on the table. Also, if you turn the fuel option off they turn into rpm gauge. So cool. Happy racing and thanks for commenting.
Ist thing you’re going to buy is not these items but more track! No point buying all these wonderful bits of technology when you’ve got a pissingly small length of track!
Great video for newer Racers!
Thanks Dan
I would add NEW TIRES to that list. I went with Bobkats urethane tires and they helped a lot. Checking the magnet is a must for new cars, 5 out of my 7 had the metal spacer, not the magnet side down to the rails.
Also if you go over 35' of track, like I did right out of the box, get power jumpers. I had 3 double lane changers and one lane is not working properly, and 2 cars are running like they are out of fuel on and off, but the fuel is off. I switched to another new CU and same thing. I even moved the CU closer to within 3/60's away to the offending lane changer, without jumpers, and still had problems. I have 1 jumper in place and it did not solve it totally but it does seem better so I'm waiting for more jumper clips on 45' of track for now.
Thanks for sharing. Tires are a big must eventually. Ill have to do a part 2 soon :)
Good Video, go for more! For me, some curves of radius 2, 3 and 4 are very Important too, also on short tracks. Brings some more challenge and fluent course.
Absolutely, upgrading the curves is an eventual purchase. Thanks!
Totally agree. I also bought these 5 items along with the track set. They are a must have for sure. I would also add the software trackplanner (Autorennbahnplaner) along with the C3D-Viewer for testing track layouts on the computer before building them.
Good addition, didn't think of the track planner. Thanks so much
Joe you nailed it buddy!! Agree with all. I shake my head when I see guardrails and no shoulders. Just me and no disrespect. Catch fence is a great addition not just to protect cars from flying off but makes the track look better. Thanks for the video!!
Thank you for checking out my video and commenting. Everything I post is based on my opinion and experiences. Never any disrespect intended. This space is a safe place. I Encourage everyone to keep the convo going and share their opinions. Thanks again brother, glad you liked it
Absolutely agree on shoulders!!!
@@davidbianucci501 Game changer dor sure. Thanks for watching 😃
I'm a Scalextric guy but, I plan on a second track, a Carrera one, so this video is valuable! Thank you!
Glad it was of help :)
WOW Joe that was awesome! I thought I was ready to buy my starter set and get going. BUT! You nailed it. My credit card will melt down along with my wife and still I will want more, more MORE. I love this hobby.
😆🤔🤣
@@boykinater Thanks Man. I've melted two cards so far but still married....for now lolll
Love your list. I would add a greater variety of corners. I love a circuit with complex combinations of curves in the corners. I can totally live without banked curves, but having #1, #2, #3 and #4 corners make it much more interesting. I have curves that use some of each. Plus using the #4 corners allow sections of track to go at 15-degree increments.
@@davidtvedte1337 Thanks for commenting. Corners are a big factor in track flow for sure. My new layout will incorporate what you mentioned. Much appreciated
Ive recently simplified my track, its still big and takes up all space, but no more overs and unders and uphills and downhills.
Some cars will only work on a perfectly smooth track, and a complicated track seems to lose connectivity easily, but mainly I want to see the car all the way around when racing. I like the idea of combing corner shapes, Ive got one corner like that.
3:18 I’m making all of my additional shoulders out of foam board and covering them with joint compound. At certain corners, I’m angling them so that they act as rumble strips. In other spots, I’m making them smooth and glossy- if your car goes wide on those spots, it’s more likely to deslot.
Hey that's great, I'd love to see a video of that. The benefit of making your own addons is the customization you can get for your needs. I'm not that crafty. Right on!
@@IrrerasCarrera I’ve taken a LOT of inspiration from @BoonesSlotCarGarage, @garagemakerguy1808, & @KenSchmud. I’m nowhere near Boone’s level of detail and realism, but I’m having fun with adding to the realism of the track as well as track hacks.
I knew I didn’t want my track sitting above the grade of the table and was planning on tracing the entire track and routing it out. Using foamboard and joint compound is a genius solution; especially if you know a little about finishing cement. You can texture it however you want. I’m looking forward to adding some gravel traps soon!
@@IrrerasCarrera ua-cam.com/video/N_N2m9hPagA/v-deo.htmlsi=gekvDySxLg1n_ajh
In this video, Boone creates rumble strips that are really more of a curb. I used a similar technique, but I cut it pretty flat and where it goes around the track and left it about 1/8” above track level. After laying it out with a soldering iron, I used an x-acto knife to cut the top of my rumble strip section into a sort of saw tooth pattern. It sounds really neat when cars slide wide and run over the rumble strips. It also takes some of the advantage out of the outside lane. (As opposed to just letting cars wall-ride like Ross Chastain at Martinsville.)
Great advice. I eventually purchased all the stuff you talked about. I have only noticed wireless laitance is on first throttle press. after that there is no problem. If your just having fun with friends $250 controllers are not required. I also removed a lot of my guard rail in favor of shoulders.
Great stuff! the delay might be from the controllers in sleep mode. Once the start/ all lights are on, I usually tell the racers to press the throttle to make sure they are out of sleep mode. I do find that one of my controllers still lags. It could be cause of frequency interference from my studio lights. Just a thought. Thanks for your comments :)
I found my wifi router interfering with the controller. Once I changed the wifi settings the inference stopped.@@IrrerasCarrera
Good video, yes all essential really to get the best out of the digital system, although I would say the Truspeed controller (and an extension wire) is a better upgrade than the wireless controller :)
Yeah, I had thought of that but I Didn't want to get into the one vs the other... but Should of mentioned both. Thanks Dave :)
Awesome! Shared to my fb page !
Thanks so much!
Totally agree on your points
Even a small track needs a check lane as it adds more immersion into the digital world plus it’s on the Smart race app so why not
Yeah man! Thanks for commenting. Glad you liked it
Hahaha Joe, loved the bloopers at the end... they hit hard 🤣 I have my fair share of moments during filming... Great video as always man! P.S. Also, just got your email from awhile ago... so sorry 🤣
No worries brother!!! Thanks so much. I like exposing my air brain over thinking everything. Plus, its all scripted so theres no reason it should take me so long lolll
@@IrrerasCarreraLol, I think the same sometimes, but once you get in front of the camera it can still all go to @$#% so I feel you! 🤣
O man It's a good thing we went analog! Seriously good info I agree with the borders and the controllers you have to well I would have to have the trigger type I can't stand the thumb style!
Thanks guys, always good to hear from you :)
With analog, a carrera car is 35.00. And any slot it or similar car can be stuck on the track and go.
The problem with wireless controllers is latency. For a home track for fun, the freedom of wireless controllers are cool, but even though the latency isn't much or that noticeable, it becomes apparent when you are "professional" racing. I would go with wired controllers and just get a cord extender. As for all the other things you suggested does make good sense.
Thanks for commenting. Pro controllers are on their way ;)
The Carrera wireless do have lag issues. I haven’t noticed any with the frankenslot ones run v3.18. Plus you can plug them into if you want. I haven’t seen anyone run a Carrera track for professional use. All are wood track that I’ve seen.
Yup. In general a cheap thumb controller sucks once you try a real controller. I let visitors use the wireless.
Sounds family, years ago we had a basic Scalextric set. A few weeks later it was 8 meter x 2 meter .
In the last few weeks, I bought a starter N scale train for fun with grandson. It's now 2. 4 meter x 560mm double loop with a 5 track yard area and 4 trains ..
There should be a warning on the box . " May cause addiction and financial drain "
@@chuckmaddison2924 I absolutely agree 😂😁😜
Thanks for recommending SmartRace! 🙂
Absolutely!! Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the hobby.
Great video. If you do want wireless I’d definitely recommend the frankenslot v3.18 controllers so much smoother and adjustable then the Carrera ones and you can use the wired or wireless.
Thanks for the tip. Im definitely looking into it :)
Great video and things to know :)
Thanks brother
I really wish I had a little more space to run a digital 1/32. I have a carrera go track. I'll likely try to upgrade although looks like it's hard to even switch out controllers on that system. I'm gonna try an HO track, too, like I had in the 80's
@@Bluepanther80 My table is 12 x 8 feet but I started with a 12x6. You can go smaller if you use more overlaps than me. Controllers are really easy to swap out or connect. Send me an email or join the Slot Yard Discord if you'd like some help with planning a layout :) Thanks for watching!
the only thing i do not have is the check lane,first thing i added was the pitlane and start lights. both my sets came with wireless controllers,the only thing i did next was add some lights and scenery to the track
Sweet, thanks for sharing!
I needed this video.
Im glad you liked it
Thank you for the inspiring video!!!!!!!
Thank you for the kind words
Awesome video!
@@Patriot_HobbiesThanks. Glad you liked it :)
i make a huge track but it loses all the power in middle
what power i use?
voltage?
@@joaosilva6756 If you're loosing power in the middle its most likely because you need to add jumper cables from the CU to parts of your track. I have 3 jumps on mine. One every 10 pieces or so.
My voltage changes depending on the type of cars I use Carrera Digital 1:33 @15v 1:24@ 18v and anolog cars at 12v
Hope this helps
Good video, I agree with everything except that i still use the Carrera Wireless controllers
I'm still using them now. They do the job. Unfortunately all three of them perform differently. It can get annoying but this is my experience. Thanks so much for commenting.
great video, thanks, subbed
Thanks so much!
Agreed.
👍
Any controller, is better than a flimsy squeaky Carrera thumb controller. I bought em and never use em. I bet they cost 5.00 to build.
The dongles and aps? I just race, I dont need any of that.
Ive really tried to make Slot-it cars run well on my carrera track, as of yet none of them work for long. They are so fast and so quiet and neat, but they just wont keep running. Granted I dont want to work on cars all the time.
@@bradsanders6954 If you never use a controller other than Carrera, you'll be good. Its when you get your hands on a better made one that changes the game.
Thanks for sharing!
I just picked up the last thing on this list. Check Mark!
Good, now I can see what im missing out on but on your dollar🤣 JK Brother Im sure you'll enjoy racing that much more. Congrats
My opinion
1: ok
2: All smart race options are paid, I suggest starting with open lap (free)
3: ok
4: the Carrera controls are all terrible, invest your money on a good controller(scp2, truspeed, frankenslot.....)
5: ok
6: ok
Your opinion is as valid as anyone else. I'm glad we can have this convo and I Appreciate your input. Everyone brings their own experience to the table and that's what I love about this hobby. Thanks so much
Your discord link expired.
Thank you I will fix that here is the new one for now
discord.com/invite/vBnGQhgt
Good one if could add something it would be a Roo
A big one 😂
That would make for a great video. Racing and holding back a kangaroo at the same time 😂
Good video Joe. I agree on all points except the Carrera controller I’m a trigger man, can’t stand the thumb controller.
I’ve set a alarm for Saturday morning, I’ll be there 👍
Thanks so much! get that coffee machine ready lol@@SewfastSpeedway
Ha ha ha I meant to write room 🤣
@@SlotCraftMaster omg I feel like a dork 😂😂😂
Great choices brother! #slotcarsareback
I'm also adding on to my pit lanes when I get them, the fuel meters. Those probably would go hand in hand too, but sold separately.
@@PNWSlotcarDad the smart race app gives you fuel meters built in. However, I Love the way they look on the table. Also, if you turn the fuel option off they turn into rpm gauge. So cool. Happy racing and thanks for commenting.
Thanks for the tips brother!
Ist thing you’re going to buy is not these items but more track! No point buying all these wonderful bits of technology when you’ve got a pissingly small length of track!