Routing Slots In Mdf
March 2016
Routing Slots In Mdf Doors
Building Show-Me Speedway
Learn how to rout dadoes using your router, what bits are needed and techniques for straight even cuts with a jig.Subscribe to the WOOD YouTube channel: http. Align it with a try square, and clamp both ends to the workpiece. Feed the router left to right along the fence (or, to put it another way, counterclockwise). Making the Dado Cut. Begin with the router switched off. Set the router base on the work, its edge against the fence, the bit clear. Don your earmuffs and safety glasses. Plug in the router. MDF has been used in a number of recently built tracks, it produces a smoother surface and a smoother slot, it is better structurally. MDF is a little heavier, but perhaps thinner sheet can be used. The minimum thickness for the track surface is 12mm (1/2 inch), although if you are using chipboard, a greater thickness is an advantage. Hanger and signs. In advertising technology for the interior, MDF also often proves to be a useful material since it can be refined and processed without much effort. In our examples, we show you the production of 3D letters or small advertising signs for the interior with the High-Z router and hangers with Arabic fonts, produced with RapotX-SL milling machines, which are now hanging in a.
This is a condensed version of the rebuilding of our track.
This is all taken from the HRW Forum version put into a format that might be easier for you to reference if needed.
First is an intro video discussing the old track.
Materials/Tools
1/8' Router Bit -LINK
Gain Bit -LINK
1/4' Pre-Taped Braid -LINK
*You can apply the tape yourself. It is MUCH easier to have it done and well worth the extra expense to me. The time it saved me alone was worth it all and then some.
1/2' MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
Assorted Paints For Track Surface and Lane Colors (if needed)
Plexiglass Strip For Radius Gauge - Check your local Auto Glass shop.
You are going to need the common tools to construct your own table. Then you will need a router of course.
You do NOT need a high end, expensive router to build a slot car track.
The router on the left is what I purchased. I needed to route indoors for this project and the vacuum port for the Shop Vac is PRICELESS. It is a Performax brand found at Menard's.
You will need to mark and drill the holes for mounting to your router. Very easy. Use a hole saw bit for the center.
Remember this is for our OVAL. Routing a road course will require different sizes and/or strips.
I mark off a 3/8' wide outer cushion. There is an extra slot being routed on the outside that will be used to mount our wall. I need at least 3/8' to give it strength at the very edges.
Various stages of track design. I went with 4 inch lane spacing to have room for the 1/25th scale models we enjoy.
A yardstick a cheap and easy way to test your lane design. Mistake? Erase it and try again.
Example of one end routed.
To create a slight angle in the straights for effect, I used simple wood wall trim. I stacked 2 of them to create the effect I was after.
To finish the effect I mounted screws in the center. This easily bowed the track just enough. Remember, 1/2' MDF will bend more than you think without any need for undercutting.
A couple videos on hiding your screws and seams.
Adding some banking for the corners.
To create a very slight banked turn, just stack some wood blocks. I made the corners just slightly higher and it turned out perfect.
Routing the straights. Use a good board for a 'fence' to hold the router against.
Repair/Clean Up Videos
Routing Mdf Board
Just some methods for repair if needed.
Routing completed.
Routing Gains
Routing your gains is an easy task, but you need to take your time abnd TEST your depth. Too shallow of a run is an easy fix, but too deep and it's all over.
I prefer my braid depth to be as flush with the surface as possible.
Paint Choice
As the video explains, I prefer Satin Latex. Smooth finish and excellent grip/rubber absorption properties. I brush on my paint instead of rolling.
I usually use 3 full coats to create a durable finish. Your first coat is what I call a 'soaker' coat. The MDF will soak that first coat quickly. Allow it to fully dry about an hour or so before beginning the finish coats.
For the lanes I use the same type of Satin paint. These are the test jars from Lowe's again. Using the condiment squirt bottles (Slot Car Corner Lane Color Ditribution System) really makes it easier to get a complete coat inside the slot and gains.
First we mask off the lanes. Then I cut out the center with an Exacto blade.
These images are from our first track, but they apply here as an the example.
Make sure your gains are fully coated. The adhesive on the back of the braid does not stick to bare MDF very well. So even if you do not want to paint your lanes a certain color, make sure it's fully coated with your base track color.
Routing Slots In Mdf Wood
Laying Your Braid
Before you begin, use a 1/4' drill bit to create your 'drops'. I use a square to line things up. With braid I did NOT need a power tap. You can make one if you feel the need.
Rolling the braid is important to fully seat the braid/adhesive. I roll the braid once a month just to make sure but normally once you roll it a few times after installation, you are good to go.
Finish Work
This shows why we routed that outside edge. I chose Plexiglass to create a more durable wall system. Again, the video explains it all.
Timing
Routing Mdf Edges
Still use and trust the Trackmate system.
Cutting Slots In Mdf
Installation is the same as we coveredHERE IN OUR TRACKMATE REVIEW.
Final Thoughts
I hope these videos and photos help you in some way to create your own wood track.
- Harry
Routing Slots In Mdf Shelves
Thanks again toSlot Car Corner and all the people on our forum who are always ready to help.
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