[Saxinis]

FYI, I don't really have much woodworking or modelling skill and I've just started getting interested in slot cars.  I really dig the digital sets, as I'm want a bit more strategy about lane changes, proper racing line, etc.

So to my question, how does one go about putting lane change switches on a routed track?  Is it extremely difficult, or can it be done well with enough experience?

[woodcote]

As you say, it can be done well - with enough skills and experience...

However, it might be worth exploring digital beforehand - getting an introductory set to play with or find someone nearby who can show you how their system works. There are several systems to look at - depending on what you want to do and on your budget. There are plenty of pros and a few cons for each. With the exception of Scalextric and oXigen, there is no compatibility between systems. What you're looking at - in no specific order - is...

• Scalextric - ARC Pro (or C7042 Advanced Powerbase + add ons - see here)
  
• Carrera Digital 132 and/or Digital 124
  
• SCX Advance
  
• Slot.it oXigen (summary here)
  
• Scorpius Wireless
  

All these are available new, under a manufacturers warranty and with manufacturers support. I highly recommend buying new from a reputable dealer - any digital system is expensive and complex and that warranty is important. A comparison between Carrera and Scalextric was discussed in a similar, but slightly different digital beginners question here.

There's an old, but useful book by Dave Chang called 'Digital Slot Car Racing' that I would recommend highly. It looks at the basis of each of the Scalextric, Carrera, oXigen and Scorpius systems, plus an older SCX digital system and Ninco N-Digital, which is no longer available or supported. Chapter 20 looks at 'Digital on Routed Tracks', which might be very helpful to you.

And do ask questions here. We might be able to help or point you in a sensible direction.