Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster's Major Overhaul: September Update
Warner Bros. Movie World is deep into its ambitious overhaul of the beloved Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster. This ride, which has delighted guests since 2002, is undergoing significant enhancements to boost capacity, improve efficiency, and ensure it remains a thrilling experience for years to come.
Key Updates to the Ride
Increased Capacity:
Previously operating with 14 vehicles, the ride will soon have 16, helping manage longer queues, especially during busy periods. This change should streamline the ride's operations and allow more guests to experience the iconic coaster each day. By removing a train stopper at the final brake zone, the overall flow of the ride is expected to be more efficient, cutting down wait times.
Station Enhancements:
Guests will notice some significant updates at the station. Entrance gates have been raised to 1.2 meters, and handrails have been upgraded for improved safety and convenience. A tester seat, similar to what’s seen at the DC Rivals HyperCoaster, has also been added at the queue entrance. This will allow guests to check if they meet the seating requirements before boarding, streamlining the loading process.
Enhancing Ride Experience with New Technology
One of the most critical changes is the installation of advanced switchable magnetic brakes. These brakes will replace the mechanical ones, providing better control and creating a smoother ride experience for guests. This upgrade also includes new control systems that will integrate the show doors more seamlessly, heightening the immersion factor of the dark ride portion of the coaster.
Upgrades to Ride Vehicles
Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster will feature newly designed vehicles from Mack Rides. These updated vehicles come with reinforced frames, new restraint systems, and handle grips on the lap bars to enhance comfort and safety. The familiar Spooky Jester will remain a key design feature on the ride vehicles, preserving a fan-favourite visual element. However the theming on the new trains remains a mystery, as we’ve only been shown the bare vehicle frames so far.
Structural Improvements
Several track segments will receive reinforced support structures, especially around high-impact areas like the backward dip. This reinforcement, along with larger bolts and additional support beams, is designed to reduce vibrations and wear, prolonging the lifespan of the ride and ensuring it operates smoothly.
New Control System
A major highlight of the overhaul is the overhaul of the ride’s control system. By upgrading to sensor-based monitoring and integrating magnetic braking technology, the entire ride will be more efficient and reliable. Additionally, this system will enhance show timing, improving the storytelling elements during the dark ride portions, with precise triggering of show effects.