SPROG ACCUTRACK 2 Speedometer

[Black Diamond]

Anyone have experience with this device: http://www.sprog.us.com/speedo.html

Jonathan

[ristooch]

I purchased one not long ago. I have been using it to speed match all my locomotives to one another and find it a very useful tool In my opinion, it is an easy way to set up locomotives to run at scale speed in DCC, whether or not you speed match them to one another. Easy and straightforward.

[Black Diamond]

Thanks for the feedback.

Jonathan

[Bendtracker1]

I've had one for a few years now, great tool.
I used it to replace my "Golden Locomotive" when speed matching.  Worth every penny.

[Cajonpassfan]

Bump.
I’m considering getting one of the Accutrack “drive through” speedometers. Not as much for speedmatching as for letting operators know their speed as they head out on the main. Two questions:

One, is the thing wide enough to straddle a straight double track N scale mainline (1.25” centerlines) and measure speeds on either track (one train at a time of course) without repositioning?

Two, is the original Accutrack just as useful in 1:160 N scale as the improved version 2? I understand the improvements include a taller clearance to allow for HO doublestacks, ability to switch to metric speeds, and more obscure scales, none of which I care about.

My gut tells me that if I could find a cheaper version 1, even used, I’d be better off.
Thoughts and advice appreciated. Oh, and if anyone has either one of these for sale, PM me please.
Otto K.

[davefoxx]

I have the Accutrack II Speedometer.  Works great and no complaints.  I have no experience with the original Accutrack version, but I read online that it might timeout quicker, requiring you to restart it.  If so, that could become annoying.

Hope this helps,
DFF

[Mark W]

Yes, it will straddle N Scale double track and measure speed regardless, so long as a few seconds pass between the end of train 1 and the beginning of train 2, to allow it to reset. 

I've got a 2 that I haven't used in years, not since I picked up a Boulder Creek Engineering Roll-by Onboard Speedometer. 
The Roll-By is easily one of my favorite accessories, so I have to mention it when we're talking speedometers.  Of course, it wouldn't quite work for your scenario.  Unless you equip each train with it's own roll-by, which would be a small fortune.   

In any case, I have no need for the Accutrack 2 I have, so happy to let it go for cheap.

[Cajonpassfan]

Thanks Mark, PM sent.
Otto

[samusi01]

I've had one for years and my only complaint is that sometimes lighter colored units (e.g., UP or Amtrak) cause problems somehow with the sensors and don't read correctly. My solution has been to place a 'cone of shame' (paper blackened by sharpie) and it helps with the sensor issue.

Sam

[greenwizard88]

I have one. I can fit it over a Kato double track piece, it works well. I have no complaints.

[Cajonpassfan]

Thanks guys! Looks like mine is on the way...
Otto

[Cajonpassfan]

Well, it came in today’s mail, and it’s exactly what I needed. Works and fits just great!
Thanks Mark!
Otto