Great new section...

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Thanks Chris, I think this could be a great addition to the forum.

I am considering a hillclimb course in my shed to run the hillclimb Specials I like to build.  My big problem is the timing.
I need an easy and cheap way to time any run from start line up to finish line about 20 feet away.  I don't want overbridges as the course will be scale in appearance, so slot mounted microswitches are needed.  What I can't find is the electronic bit in between. Something that'll count off seconds and hundredths and just needs volts and triggers.  There's something in RS's listings, but as ever with RS it's expensive.
Does anyone have any ideas at all about how I can knock up a cheapie?  No laps, one lane only, no PCs or laptops.  Even if it's how to modify a hand held electronic stopwatch. That'll do if it's idiot proof.  'Lectronically Je suis un idiot!

Cheers,
Martin

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I forgot to mention that, a little contrary to this forum's name, my track will be built to 1/43rd scale, to ensure I can get the most in to the space, but 1/32nd scale cars will be able to run on it, if a little narrowly, but hills are narrow, aren't they.
I also have a lot of 1/43rd scale shells from Lloyd and it makes car parks so much easier to portray thanks to all the cheap diecasts around. I also have a lot of 1/43rd scale buildings that I made for model railway use, but which won't be seeing a layout in my time. I've realised that railways were only ever an excuse to make scenery.

Cheers,
Martin