by Modlerbob » Tue Dec 26, 2017 5:23 pm
I have a problem and I am seeking the best solution. My mdf track, Debary Glen, has been in operation for over three years now using copper tape to transmit power to the car. We have had to replace it once so far. The current copper tape is reaching the point where it has so many patches it is hard to keep all four lanes operational. So I have decided to buy tinned copper braid to replace the copper tape. I would go with steel braid but it is way too expensive. One of my racing buddies has purchased a router that is small enough to rout the outside lanes without removing the railings but we still have a problem to solve. That is, how to rout the underpass without dismantling half the track. One solution is to cut away the section directly over the underpass, rout the lower track and reinstall the upper track which would involve resurfacing some of the track at the joints. A second solution is to cut the lower track, pull it out and rout it and then reinstall it. Again, it would involve patching the surface where it was cut, but at least it is firmly attached to the table and doesn't need to be supported in the air. A third solution is to leave the copper tape in place in the underpass and install wiring to insure continuity. The tape in the underpass hasn't caused any problems in the past. The last solution we have thought of involves detaching the pier supports for the overpass from the table and temporarily installing support posts elevating the overpass high enough to get the router underneath. Two problems I see with this option are a) the stress may break the location where the mdf sections are joined and b) the difficulty of running the router through the opening and getting a neat straight cut.
So does anyone out there see a better method for solving this problem. I want to make sure we have the best solution planned before ripping out the first inch of copper tape. I don't want the track out of commission for more than a couple of days.
I will be getting the supplies I need from Slot Car Corner, the copper braid, router bit and power connectors.