Pinewood cars are small race car models that are built to specific dimensions and raced by gravity down an inclined track.
Team: Individual Event
Rules: Each car is inspected at Weigh-in for the following inspection points:
Once passed inspection, the car goes to the staging area, and can only be accessed by track officials, until all races are concluded.
Derby Car Dimensions:
The overall Length of the car shall not exceed 7 inches.
The overall width of the car shall not exceed 2-3/4 inches.
The car must have 1-3/4-inch clearance between wheels.
The car must have 3/8-inch clearance underneath the body so it does not rub on the track.
Derby Car Weight
The car weight shall not exceed 5.0 ounces (141.75 grams).
The Official Race Scale that is used at the check-in shall be considered final.
Wood, Wheels, and Axles:
The block of wood may be shaped in any way desired.
No narrowing or rounding of the wheels will be allowed. You may remove the seams and imperfections from the wheels.
The axles may be altered, polished, and lubricated. Allowable lubricants are Graphite and Teflon.
All 4 wheels must sit flat on the track.
Wheelbase cannot exceed 5-3/4 inches max, and no less than 4 inches.
Front and rear wheels must be positioned directly across from each other.
Front of Car:
Height: The bottom center of the front end must be no higher than 1” above the track, so that it shall rest against the short starting pin.
Width: The front end must be at least ½ inch wide in the middle of the car, so that when the car is placed in the starting position, it shall be centered on the starting pin.
NO PART OF THE CAR BODY, WHEELS OR ATTACHMENTS MAY PROTRUDE IN FRONT OF THE STARTING PIN.
Car Modifications NOT Allowed:
Wheel bearings, washers, or bushings are prohibited.
The car must not ride on any type of springs.
No starting devices. The car must be freewheeling.
No loose material of any kind, (such as lead shot), may be used.
No Grooves are allowed in axles.
Over lubrication causing shedding onto the track is not allowed.
Hints:
Weight is Good
A heavier car will go faster than a lighter car. (i.e. a 5.0 oz car will generally go faster than a 3.0 oz car)
Weight can be added anywhere on the car as long as it does not affect the required length, width, or underbody clearance., and the car is 5.0 oz. or less.
Friction is bad:
Application of graphite to the wheels and axles will reduce friction and make the car go faster.
Wheels should turn freely and not rub against the car.
Entries should be registered by May 15. (pre-register below.)
Pre-Registration fee - $4.00/car if pre-registered by May 15. Payment is due at weigh-in on Fair Day.
After May 15 & Race Day Registration- $2.00 increase in fee (totaling $6.00) if car is NOT pre-registered by May 15.
Event Tip
Car kits are inexpensive and fun to build. Beginners may want to start with pre-cut models. Kits & supplies can be found at Hobby Lobby and Joann Fabric & crafts.