THUNDERROAD SPEEDWAY
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BUILDING THE NEW THUNDERROAD
Construction of the new ThunderRoad Speedway is based on two tables, each 4'x8',constructed of 1" lumber to form a perimeter and grid for the table top. The grid work is neccessary to add rigidity and attach supports for elevated portions of the track. It is better to use screws rather than nails. Screws are more secure, and more reversible should you need to make a change later on.
Since the track will be in a basement location (humid), all of the frame work was painted prior to attaching the 1/2" plywood table top. Also prior to assembly, holes were drilled in all of the cross members to facilitate wiring, and the underside of the table painted.

Next the track was laid out on the plywood top. The table top should be loose at this point so you can make your elevation cut outs without damaging the frame work. Layout of the track was a cinch! And nothing was purchased that was not needed. I used TRACKER2000 software to design the track, and everything was a perfect fit. You can get a trial version of TRACKER2000 for FREE. If you like it you can buy the password to the full version for $39.95. This program really works!

It is a good idea to lay out the track, using temporary supports for any elevations, and test drive the track. It is much easier and much less expensive to make changes at this point than after everything is permenantly in place. Remember, it does always drive the way it looks on paper.

Once you are satisfied with the design, draw your elevation cutouts on the plywood, leaving plenty of extra space for shoulders, guardrail posts, etc. Remove the track and the table top. Use sawhorses to do the cutting with the jigsaw, so as not to damage the framework. Reassemble the top and the track, again using temporary supports, and test it all again. You are still at an easy place to make changes if you need to. Later, it will not be so easy.

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MORE OF THE CONSTRUCTION
OF THE NEW THUNDERROAD.

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Copyright © 2000, 2001 John Nelson, ThunderRoad Speedway.
Created - December 26, 2000