Build a Track Table

From SCDimensions

Introduction

For many, running a slot car track on the floor is their only option. However, this has its share of hazards, such as cars picking up exceptional dust and dirt, pets chasing the cars as they race around the track, and people accidentally stepping or kneeling on the track surface. The last hazard is particularly common when small children are racing. If you want a permanent layout that you can add scenery to a sturdy track table is one of the first things you need to build.

The following is one possible way to build a set of tables. The size of the deck can be adjusted based on the space available for the table or tables, but the leg and deck construction should use the same or similar materials so that the table can withstand the test of time.

Raw Materials

Materials

Hardware

The quantities in following list will build one table. The materials pictured at the right were used to build three tables.

1 each 1/4" x 4' x 8' plywood. (Deck)
3 each 1" x 6" x 8' boards (Frame)
1 each 1" x 4" x 8' board (Deck support, crosswise)
1 each 1" x 2" x 8' board (Deck support, lengthwise)
2 each 2" x 4" x 6' boards (Legs)
4 each 3/8" x 3 1/2" bolts with flat washers and lock nuts
8 each 3/8" x 2 1/2" bolts with flat washers and lock nuts
1 box of 1" 1/2" no. 8 wood screws. (50 count)
Drill with 5/64" drill bit and 3/8" wood bit.
Saw (hand or power)
Tape measure
Carpenter's square
Wrenches and screwdrivers to fit hardware
Adjustable clamps.

Building the Table

Note: The following instructions assume you are going to build a 4' x 8' table. If you choose to build a different deck size, the general instructions remain the same.

Preparation

First, cut your table legs from the 2 x 4's. Typical tables are between 28" and 32" high. The height you select will depend on how tall your racers are and the type of seating you plan to use. Remember: it is always easier to take height away then it is to add it back, so if you aren't sure at this point start at the taller end of the range.

Assembling the Deck

I found the easiest way to build the "box" that the deck rests on was to attach it directly to the plywood decking. One screw through the decking every 12" to 18" and three screws to secure each "box" side to the other will keep things nice and tight. This first picture shows one side of the box being attached to the deck. Once the sides are in place you can add the deck supports. These add rigidity to the table surface. I recommend installing two 1" x 2" cross-supports and one 1" x 4" support the length of the table. (The 1" x 4" support will have to be notched where it intersects the two cross-supports so it contacts the underside of the deck.) Use two screws through the sides of of the "box" into each cross support. You might also consider a bit of wood glue where it contacts the decking.

Initial Box Frame	Cross Supports in place	Longitudinal Support in place
Completed Deck

Assembling the Legs

When all the sides are attached and the deck supports are installed you need to drill holes for the legs. The next picture shows the placement of these. A trick to getting the holes to easily line up is to clamp the leg into position in the corner and then drill through both the "box side" and the leg at the same time. (This requires a 6" wood bit.) Be sure to mark each leg and corner with a number, letter, or some other unique mark so it is easy to match them up again later.