Big track power concernes

[bryon-1237304]

I’m planning on doing a 40+ foot track. Will I need more power? If so can I use Two powerbases. One at start of track an other half way around track. Or do I need jumper cables instead. It will be a two lane analog track. With a few lane changes. But planning on going digital when funds permit. I have the arc one air powerbase. An a standard base from regular track set

[Andy P.]

Hi Byron,

The new search function should give you some examples of people asking more or less the same question.

1. Do not combine any powerbases. In fact a user posted just recently this was causing his cars not to run even though there was no power applied to the second powerbase.
2. Try to keep the number of connections to a minimum: For example if you are doing a 90° R2 try to use a 1 piece 90° R2 curve as opposed to 2 45° R2 curves.
3. Keep your connections tight: See here about power drops: https://support.scalextric.com/hc/en-gb/articles/360016220179-Scalextric-Track-Maintenance

Doing the above should allow you to run a 40 foot/30 meter track with 2 cars using standard motors.

If you are using aftermarket or non-standard motors (for example from other slot car brands) things could be touch and go.

In your specific case I personally prefer the ARC AIR. Users have reported successfully using the ARC PRO power supply with the ARC AIR power base to increase power. You could try this if you are still expereincing power drops.

Failing that there is something called the "brake mod" for ARC ONE (use the search to find it. Let me know if it doesn't show up): Essentially you remove the connection to the track and use an older Sport powerbase (C8217) that allows 2 power supplies. This will give you the pitting and timing function or ARC ONE (it still has to be plugged in) and should give you plenty of power to get around the track (plus the controllers have brakes which the ARC ONE does not).

I know I said not to combine powerbases but this is a rare exception.

Good luck!