How to Build a Faster Pinewood Derby Car DIY Pinewood Derby Car
Table Of Content
There is a fastest possible build based on the info from those two questions. Below is my checklist that I go over with every fellow racer. Before the race begins, it’s crucial we make meticulous preparations. By paying attention to the finer details, we greatly increase our chances of having the fastest Pinewood Derby car at the starting pin. The ideal placement for the center of gravity is 7/8-in. Too far back and your car will pop a wheelie, ruining any chance for a win.
Ready
And trust me…they are still moving crazy fast at the end of the track. Novelty fun cars that have their unique flair that makes them builds that we all know are done from the scout. This is what pinewood derby is supposed to be about! This is what we would like to see the niche come back to full circle. Another good lubricant, if your rules allow, is Nyoil. Nyoil will reduce friction throughout your race because it stays on your axles long after graphite has dropped offin the later heats.
Ride on Three Wheels, if Allowed
At Maximum Velocity, we have some of the fastest pinewood derby car designs available today. Founder Randy Davis has a background in engineering and over twenty years of experience with pinewood derby racing. His valuable insight provides builders with everything they need to design race-winning cars every time.
Step 2: Lubricate Axles and Wheels
Remember, every little bit counts when it comes to racing, so take the time to test your car properly and give yourself the best chance of success on race day. Choosing the right materials is essential when building a pinewood derby car. The block of wood you use should be lightweight and have straight grain. The weight of the car should be no more than 5 ounces, and tungsten weights can be used to add weight to your car while keeping it small. This is the most important first step in building a car.
Engineer the Wheels
If you really want a professional looking car, car kits are sold that include fenders, exhaust pipes, bumpers, etc. First step is to have fun thinking up a pine derby car design. Don’t limit your imagination, but keep in mind that the more complicated the design, the harder it will be cut the pine block and shape the car. Baking your pinewood derby block can help to remove any moisture and make the wood more stable. However, it’s important to be careful not to overheat the wood, as this can cause it to crack or warp. For those looking for a more advanced shaping technique, you can try the “railriding” method.
Zigzagging causes the car the travel a longer distance, continually losing speed as it bumps and rubs against the guard rail. Lubrication is very important when it comes to creating a competitive car. Graphite is often used as lubrication and comes in very small flakes. Cheap brands have a lower carbon content and include impurities.
Just because you use tungsten doesn’t make your car faster, though. The more stored energy, the longer you accelerate. The higher up from the ground you place weight, the more energy you have.
Use Axle Guards
This involves cutting grooves along the sides of the block of wood to reduce drag and improve stability. Just be careful not to cut too deep, as this can weaken the block of wood. Mix up some 2-part epoxy to glue your weights in the pocket—we used JB Weld. Spread a little in the bottom of the pocket, and then carefully install your weights, pressing them down so they don’t protrude below the bottom of the car body. We used a jig to drill guide holes in the axle slots, at a 2.5-degree angle, which accomplishes the same thing as bending the axles.
Racing Theory – Straight Shooter vs Rail Rider™
Open for Debate: Who really made that Pinewood Derby car? - Aaron On Scouting - Aaron on Scouting
Open for Debate: Who really made that Pinewood Derby car? - Aaron On Scouting.
Posted: Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT [source]
In conclusion, building the fastest pinewood derby car requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a lot of hard work. But with the right materials, design, and techniques, you can give yourself an edge and increase your chances of winning. The shape of your pinewood derby car is important. The car should have a pointed nose and a tapered body to reduce drag. Use a saw, sandpaper, and a file to shape your car. Remember to keep the weight balanced and centered, with the heaviest part of the car at the back.
Who knows, maybe your wacky design will be the talk of the race track. Once you’ve got your design sketched out, it’s time to start shaping your block of wood. Use a saw to cut out the basic shape of your car, and then use sandpaper and a file to smooth out any rough spots and refine the shape.
When selecting wheels and axles, it’s important to choose high-quality components that are well-machined and polished. Look for wheels and axles that are specifically designed for pinewood derby cars, as these will be designed for maximum speed and performance. As Derby Worx© has proven, rail riding is the fastest setup to build a winning pinewood derby car. When you rail ride, the steer wheel initially rubs the car body because of positive camber. However once the car steers in to the rail, the wheel is no longer touching the car body. Rear wheels with negative camber, never touch the car body.
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