Basic Slot Car Maintenance - Part 1

Welcome to the exciting hobby of Slot Cars.  At the beginning it is great fun, until everything starts to hesitate and slow down. That's when you need to look after your setup so you can continue with maximum enjoyment of your Slot Car experience.

You are here to learn abut how to maintain your Slot Car setup before it needs major maintenance (we hope we've caught you in time, lol)

Weather you have a small and simple setup or a 4+ lane for club racing, the proper cleaning routine is needed.

Fixing Track to a Baseboard

Ideally, it is best not to nail, screw or glue the track to a base board at all. The reason for this is that plastic and metal, the two ingredients of Scalextric track, expand and contract at different rates. So, on hot days the plastic will expand larger than the rail. Of course, the rail won't let the plastic expand evenly due to the rail gripping the plastic. This causes the track surface to warp.

When the track is laid loose the circuit can 'grow' and absorb any expansion due to heat. If the track is not allowed to move freely (ie nailed down) then any expansion will only lead to uneven surfaces.

If the layout is to lay flat, leave the track loose. Keep the layout in a dry and constant temperature room. This normally means that the loft, shed and garage are not good places.

Power Drops and Breaks

The most often asked question is 'My car has stopped on the track. What has broken?'

The most common (1 =most common) reasons that this might happen are:

1. The track piece that the car is resting on has no electrical power due to bad track connections.
2. The car motor has expired or their is a mechanical reason within the car that is stopping the motor from turning (e.g. tyre jammed against wheel arch).
3. A guide braid has come out.
4. The hand controller is not plugged in to the power base fully.
5. The electrical power switch is turned off.
6. The car has developed a fault.
7. The hand controller has broken.
8. A motor wire has broken.
9. The power base has broken.
10. The power base is not connected to the power supply.
11. The power supply lead is broken.
12. The power supply has broken.

Here's how to cure the most common problem of electrical power problems on the track - No 1 above.

When the following procedure has been completed you should be able to race cars at full speed on tracks of up to 200 feet or more without any practical electrical problems.

Power jumper cables can be used on 'analogue' or digital track circuits. Note, though, that a power jumper cable only hides a bad track connection and, ultimately, it is better to fix the track problem than add power jumper cables.

Question: There are power breaks or weak power sections on the Scalextric layout. How can this be repaired?

Answer:When a car stops on circuit this can indicate TWO breaks in electrical continuity since electricity travels in both directions around the track. If there was only one break then you would not notice it as electricity flows in both direction!

The way to correct this problem is to:

• Disconnect the track behind the power base.
• Then drive a car forward at a slow speed. When the car crosses from one piece of track to the next there should not be a drop in power/speed.
• If there is a drop or loss in power, then fix the track connection. Disconnect both track pieces (the track piece immediately before and after the fault). Turn them over on a hard surface. Ensure that the metal rail tabs at the ends of the rails (there are 8 of them on every track piece) are fully pressed and clamped down to the plastic. Use a stout screwdriver or similar to push them tight.
• Watch this video on how to do this Track tab maintenance.
• Reconnect the repaired track pieces and retest by placing the car back at the power base and again drive the car slowly forward until you meet the next reduced or lost power section.
• Continue the above repair process until you get to the last track piece before the power base.
• Reconnect the last track piece to the power base.
• Full power should now be restored.

Testing Lane Change Sections

In the event that a lane change track piece fails to operate follow this simple procedure:

• Disconnect the lane change track piece and check that the rail connections are all good. See other Top Tips feature regarding track connections and loss of power.
• Check that there are no obstructions in the slot preventing the flipper from physically moving. It should 'flip' freely.
• Ensure that the track piece hasn't been bent (stood on, for instance) which will also cause the flipper to jam.
• Reconnect the track piece and turn power on.
• Manually move the flipper in to the position which would cause the car to change lane. Manually push a car over the track lane change sensor (this is a round hole about one car length before the flipper). The flipper should flip back to the 'straight ahead' position.
• The lane change track piece should be usable if the above procedures have not identified any problems.

We carry Scalextric 1:32 scale Slot Cars. We are expanding our selection for the slot car season of 2014-2015 (November to March).


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Basic Airbrush - Q & A

Many different experience levels come and visit us here at Chinook & Hobby West to talk about Airbrushing. We also get many questions regarding Airbrushes through our social medias and by email.

We carry Paasche, Iwata and Badger currently and yes, we do promote these items. We also have general information to help all Airbrush users.

The following are some of your questions and answers we have researched for you.  If you still have questions, please email us at hobbywest@shaw.ca.

Airbrush Classes for Beginner to Expert
Email us for Class list

Q: What is an airbrush? A: An airbrush is a small, air-operated tool that sprays fluid (paint, ink, dye, stain, glaze, etc.). It resembles, and is held like, a pen. It applies paint through a process known as atomization. Q: What's atomization? A: An airbrush takes a fluid and turns it into a directed airborne mist. You can think of it as a sophisticated perfume atomizer or as a controllable spray paint can. Q: How does an airbrush work? A: The airbrush must be attached to an air source to spray. Airbrushes have two systems that must work together to function properly. The air system provides energy for the atomization of the fluid. The fluid system delivers the paint to the tip of the airbrush to be atomized and sprayed onto a surface. Q: What type of airbrush is best for me? A: This depends on your desired application. Most airbrush users today use single- or dual-action, internal mix airbrushes because they offer the most control and the finest of sprays. However, single-action, external mix airbrushes are very popular for hobby and craft applications, the spraying of ceramic glazes or high viscosity materials, or where cost is a factor. (They are generally less expensive.)

Q: What is the difference between internal-mix and external-mix? A: In an internal-mix airbrush, the air and paint mix inside the paint tip. This produces a thorough atomization or mixing, which results in a very soft, fine spray pattern. In an external-mix airbrush, the air and paint mix outside the tip, producing a coarse spray pattern. Q: Why are there different size tips for the airbrush? A: Nozzle sizes are differentiated by tenths and sometimes hundredths of millimeters. The different sizes allow for finer or coarser paint (how finely the paint pigment is ground up) while trading off between finer and coarser lines and spray patterns. The line sizes are relative within the Iwata product line. A practiced hand and deft touch can accomplish some amazing lines and effects with a .5mm nozzle on the Eclipse or Revolution series airbrushes. Q: What types of surfaces can be worked on? A: All surfaces can be airbrushed, paper, canvas, plastic, metal, glass, wood, leather, skin, etc. The key is to insure the proper preparation of the surface prior to spraying and its compatibility with the sprayed material. Q: What kinds of paint can I use with the airbrush? A: All paints, oils, acrylics, watercolors, automotive paints, enamels, alkyds, etc., are sprayable as long as they are thinned to a consistency, like light cream, that enables them to flow easily through the airbrush. However, if you're just learning how to paint with an airbrush consider buying airbrush ready paints then you can focus on improving your technique rather than worrying about whether or not your paint is going to clog the airbrush. We have two great Airbrush DVDs that can help you with your technique.  We also have informative books and brochures and if we do not have your replacement parts in stock, we can order them. Source Thank you for checking out our Blog.  Please visit our Website, Facebook and Newsletters.

Are You Interested in Slot Cars as a Hobby?

We currently carry Scalextric Slot Cars in 1:32 scale.  We do have plans to carry more in the future during Slot Car Season (November to March).

This article is to help the beginners in this fun hobby, learn more to increase their enjoyment of Slot Cars. Let us know if you have any questions regarding Slot Cars. valhobbywest@shaw.ca
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Standard vs Digital

What is the difference between standard Scalextric and Scalextric Digital from a racing experience point of view?

Scalextric Digital racing more about racing as a whole - e.g. you have to get to the finish line despite the following randoms thrown in to the mix: get past other cars on the same lane as you, take pit stops, refuel, take penalty 10sec 'stop-and-go' if you've transgressed, other cars will be in the way and stuff happens that ruins your strategy and you have to think your way out.

Standard Scalextric racing is more about car preparation and driving technique - simple. However, these two skills are also as important in Digital racing.

The key difference, in a word, is Interaction. It is about what happens between you and the other teams/cars/drivers. Comparatively, Digital gets 10/10 for Interaction (and I don't mean crashing in to each other - that would be sorted with a 10 second Pit Lane Stop&Go penalty for such bad driving!) whereas standard Scalextric (1/10 for interaction) is more of a time trial or sprint. Some standard Scalextric clubs have more than two lanes so that more people, at the start of the race, can leave the grid at the same time - but from there on the drivers are on their own until they complete the number of laps or race time.

Scalextric Digital racing offers the most complete racing experience.

Getting Started

Guide lines

• There is no age barrier.
• There are no hard and fast rules about what cars race together, what shape circuits should be and what race rules should be used.
• Most owners make up their own rules, design their own circuits and choose which cars to use.
• We encourage fans to be as creative as possible.

Buying the first Scalextric set

• The best way to get up and running is to buy a set.
• This gives all the equipment you need to race right out of the box.
• Use the 'Choose a Set' feature on the Home Page.

Flexibility and Compatibility

• Increase your car stable by buying individual cars
• Grow the layout by purchasing separate track pieces.
• Scalextric layouts do NOT have to be laid out as per the suggested circuit on the box lid.
• Be creative, design different circuits!
• Download the FREE Track Designer programme and design a layout. The software gives an inventory of the parts required.
• Most Scalextric cars can be used on any track layout without any problems.
• Track from  previous Scalextric sets can be used with current Scalextric layouts.

Who races Scalextric?

• Our Scalextric Enthusiasts Club shows we have members from around 7 years old to +70 years old, of both sexes!
• There are Scalextric clubs around the world.
• Most Scalextric owners race at home with friends and family.
• Organised racing takes place in Scalextric clubs around the world.
• Our own Scalextric roadshows and exhibitions also provide organised racing.
• There are national and international racing championships held annually.
• How involved you want to get is entirely up to you!
• Scalextric is a pastime, a hobby and a sport.

Access to Scalextric Track Designer

Scalextric Track Designer is the ultimate track building tool! This excellent 3D software includes the full Scalextric track inventory and comes complete with a built-in room designer. It offers Scalextric fans the chance to plan workable tracks, including multi-lane layouts, before getting down to actually building them!

Budding track designers can create the ultimate racing challenge by incorporating elevations and gradients, pit lanes, barriers and other exciting extras. Fully backward compatible with all classic track pieces, the designer is suited to both analogue and digital Scalextric formats.

Once created the designs can be saved, printed or even sent directly to our online shop were the extras you need are added automatically to your shopping basket, making it even easier to purchase the parts you need to build your epic track. Scalextric Track Designer installs in English, French, Spanish or German.

You can download the software FREE here: Download Scalextric Track Designer now!

You can also download the bumper pack of extra pre-made layouts completely free!

Some Neat Features of Scalextric Starter Sets

Accelerate into the new world of 1:32 scale slot racing.  Available in three alternative ready-to-race sets, Scalextric Start provides everything for the rookie racer:

• 1:32 scale slot racing action
• Easy-to-connect/disconnect track
• Multiple circuit options
• Large track pieces for speedy set up
• Skill level control hand throttles
• Super tough cars

Add to your slot car collection!

Race any Scalextric car on your new Scalextric Start circuit.

Expand your Scalextric Start circuit!

Option 1: Increase the track length of your Start circuit by over one metre, simply by adding C8527 Scalextric Start Straight Track Extension Pack.

Option 2: Alternatively, incorporate the C8525 Scalextric Start Converter Track Packand add any track piece from the full Scalextric range to enhance your new Scalextric Start set.

Make sure to check out our next blog post on Basic Slot Car Maintenance. 

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Basic Tips For Figure Painting

– From Chinook & Hobby West

1.      Wash all plastic parts in a grease cutting soap to remove oils and release agents.

2.      Inspect, clean, trim and sand as needed.

3.      Prime with white or gray so features stand out.

4.      Plan out your colours for your project.

5.      Paint basic colours. Go from light to dark. Paint flesh & eyes, white, tan, etc.

6.      Select colour wash in dark versions of your painted piece. Brown for flesh, Navy for uniforms, black for battle worn.  Dilute paint with water or thinner at a one to one mixture.

7.      Do highlights and lowlights, as needed using dry brushing.

8.      Seal your piece by spraying with dullcote (matte finish), glosscote or preference.

9.      Glue (or place if movable) onto your diorama.

Remember

• Take your time
• Be patient – Mistakes can be fixed
• HAVE FUN!!!

Guide to a Simple Train Around the Christmas Tree

Since the first model train came into existence (Lionel in Germany in the 1830's) , kids and adults alike have dreamed of a Train around the Christmas Tree. It has become a special Holiday Tradition in many homes.

Remember the simple track you used when you were a kid?  Remember the train stopping or not running properly around the tree?  This was most likely because of all the dust, pet fur and other nasty surprises that can get drawn into the wheels and gears of the Locomotive.
 The train sets today have EZ Track (HO & N scale sets) or FasTrack (O scale sets) so you can put the track directly on the floor or on fabric and not have to worry too much about this problem. Although learning to maintain your locomotive is a good idea. Cleaning the wheels and gears weekly if you run it frequently, just to have that uninterrupted level of fun!

N & HO EZ-Track, O Lionel FasTrack

So let's get to why you are here:  Setting up a Simple track and train around your Christmas Tree!
Things You'll Need:

• Electric Train Set, with  track and power pack (choose a scale suited for the area you have- the most popular are HO (1:87 scale), O (1:48 scale), and G (1:22.5 - 1:25)
• piece of plywood (optional)
• Christmas Tree with a stand

1. Your Train - After a year in storage, your trains may need a little cleaning. In addition to brushing off the dust, the track and wheels need to be thoroughly cleaned. Older, steel track is prone to rusting if stored in humid locations. If your track shows signs of rust, save your time and just replace it. Clean wheels with paper towels and cleaning fluids.
   After extended periods in storage, it may be necessary to disassemble, clean and re-oil locomotive gearboxes. Do not over-lubricate.  (If you bring in your Train, we can teach you how to do this. There is no cost unless replacement parts are needed) Check power supplies and wires for any signs of wear or distress. Replace if needed.  There are many different sets with Steam and Diesel Locomotives, in different scales to choose from should you need to purchase one.
2. Track - See how much track you have (most sets for HO come with a minimum of a 36" circle or 36"x 48" oval- which is usually enough for a simple 'around the tree' layout). Most O scale sets come with a 40"x 60" oval- but check the box first!)  When adding more track into your oval or circle, you MUST add two.  Meaning, if you add a rerailer track that's 9" to one side, you must add an equal size to the opposite side so the layout doesn't bend and break. This is the same for curves.  If your track does not have roadbed built into it, place down a piece of plywood first.                                                       
3. Measure the area from the base of the tree out to make sure you have enough track for around the base of the tree. Keep in mind where the presents will go.  We usually have a space to either side of the track (on the outside) so we can run the train while opening gifts.                                                              
4. Keep It Simple - If you are only running the train for the Christmas Season, keep your track plan simple (to an oval or circle). If you want it a little more than just the traditional track plan, try these: 

   

   HO  Oval with incline

   
   

   

   HO  or O  plan

   
   

   

   Twice Around The Tree plan

   
   

   

   Twice Around The Tree Finished in O scale

   
   

   

   For small tree - HO scale plan.     For a larger tree- O or G scale plan

   
   
5. Assembling the Track and Testing the Train - Assemble the track, Make sure your electrical connector track is in an accessible position with the wire hookups facing the outer rim of the track circle.
   Connect the power pack to the track as directed by the instructions and test the flow of current using the model engine. Make sure it can circle the track at half speed without hitting a bump or falling off.
   Test the train one more time before putting the tree in place and decorating.                                          
6. Make it Kid Friendly - Christmas trains are meant to be enjoyed by all ages, and they are a great introduction into the hobby for children. One easy way to make any model train display more kid-friendly is to make them part of the action. In addition to running the trains, kids will want to help build and decorate the layout. Incorporating kid's toys into the display is a great way to make it personal and still keep a holiday feel.                                                                                                                         
7. 
8. Cleaning - If your trains are running beneath a Christmas tree, you'll probably find yourself pulling needles off the tracks by the end of the season. There is no great secret to keeping needles off the tracks (even an artificial tree will probably lose a few.) 
   Make sure you can reach all the way around the tree to clean. Make sure vacuming needles won't result in losing other scenic material or details.
   One additional concern for under-tree-trains is the power supply. Make sure your electrical circuit can handle the needs of both the trains and the tree lights. And make sure the cords for both don't interfere with the tracks.

9. Packing and Storing

   ©2010 Ryan C Kunkle, licensed to About.com, Inc.
   Next year's display begins when you put this year's away.

   • Before you pack, take the time to clean track and wheels again.
   • Pack trains, tracks, power supplies and all accessories carefully. Use original boxes if possible.
   • Store your trains in a dry place. Store fragile items where they will be safe.
   • If possible, give your locomotive a brief break-in run periodically throughout the year.

Some Final Tips to keep in mind:

• The lower branches of your tree will need to be trimmed up to allow enough room for the train to circle as well.
• The temptation may be to get a big train with lots of buildings, switches, figures and lights, but under a Christmas tree, limited space makes this impractical.
• For the same reasons, a Christmas train should be limited to a single engine and four cars.
• If your train set comes with securely locking tracks, you can avoid using plywood as long as the track will stay steady (for example, on a hard wood floor). Carpeting can create problems.
• If your train wobbles or comes off the track easily, disassemble the rail cars and glue weights inside to keep pressure on the track.
• Experiment with speed, but remember, a train flying around the track will also fly right off.
• If children will be operating the train, very young kids may have more success with a larger train gauge like 0 or G. It will be easier for them to hook the cars and place them on the track.
• While the voltage of a train power pack is not great enough to cause real damage, you should use a watering can with a long spout if you are using a live or cut tree. Water can damage the train and cause a short.

Thank you for reading our blog. Please feel free to leave a comment or email us a comment. 
Also check us out on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and our Website!

Happy Hobbying!

Want to learn more:
First Model Railroad
Maintaining Your Locomotive
Replacing Model Train Wheels
Small Layout Holiday Ideas
Twice Around The Tree- Full Article

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source 2

National Aviation History Month - Part 3 The Futuristic

National Aviation History Month -

What Does the Future Hold?

When you were a child what ideas of the future did you have?  Did you watch the Jetsons and think that by the time you were an adult we would have flying cars and moving sidewalks?

The Jetsons

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Jetsons

What about your hobbies?  Were you building models of Lost In Space, Star Wars or Star Trek ships and robots? Did you fashion a space ship out of boxes? Tell stories to your friends about space adventures you would have? Or did you stay on the earth and fantasize about homes that would read your thoughts and turn on the lights automatically, cook your favourite meal in seconds, or shower and dress you in minutes?

Enterprise Model Kit

Annekin's Jedi Starfighter

A glimpse into the future of aviation

Fuel is getting ever more expensive. If we still want to be able to fly in the future, we'll need new and more efficient planes. Aviation pioneers are working on concepts on how the planes of the future might look like.

draft plane of the German Aerospace Center blends cabin with wings to create a "blended-wing body."

Green aviation

Aviation causes around 3 percent of CO2 emissions worldwide. For the EU commission, this is too much: it's calling for a reduction by 25 percent by 2050. Visionary new aviation projects could help realize this ambitious goal. The plane pictured here, built by Bauhaus-Luftfahrt, uses electricity to get off the ground.

What do you thing the future will hold for Aviation?

Let us know by commenting on this blog or on one of our other medias.  Thank you for reading our blog, we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.

Chinook & Hobby West

Where The Fun Begins!

South:

5011 Macleod Tr. SW

Calgary, AB   T2G 0A9

PH- 403-243-1997

toll free- 877-525-5785

hobbywest@shaw.ca

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