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Post date: Feb 20, 2014 7:50:48 AM
Hi pack!
It's time once again for the Pinewood Derby!
The Derby is unique in Cub Scouts in that it's a competition. In one sense this means that all but one child will leave the event disappointed. With that in mind, please remember that what's important is that your son DOES HIS BEST.
We use this event to promote sportsmanship and good citizenship, personal achievement, and family togetherness. If your son can cheer on his friends after his car has been eliminated, then we have done something right.
It's always hard to balance how much work you should do on the car versus how much you let your son do by himself. A good rule is that your son should feel like he did all the work. He will be more proud of the messy wobbly car he built than the gorgeous one that you built for him.
In the end, the kids just want to participate. Usually the part they like best is playing smash-up-derby with their cars on the floor after the race!
HOW IT WORKS
At the start of the event, we'll have a final weigh-in and judging. Each car will then race against other cars at least three times -- once on each of the three lanes of the pack's Pinewood Derby track. The three cars that win each heat will meet in a final round to determine the winners.
Once the competition has begun, nobody may touch the cars except under the supervision of the race leaders. If a car needs to be repaired, leaders will again supervise it.
In addition to recognition for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, cars will be judged in the following categories:
* Best craftsmanship
* Funniest car
* Most visible
* Cub's Choice (the big one! Kids vote on this one.)
RULES
Pinewood 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 clearance between the wheels.
* The car must have 3/8 clearance underneath the body so it does not rub on the track.
Derby Car Weight
* The car weight shall not exceed 142 grams, or 5 ounces if the scale does not display grams.
* The official race scale that is used at car check-in shall be considered final.
Wood, Wheels and Axles
* The official pine wood block must be used. The block may be shaped in any way that is desired.
* The BSA wheels that came with your kit must be used. The wheels may not be cut, drilled, beveled, rounded, or filled. You may do light sanding to remove the seams and imperfections from the wheels.
* The axles that came with your kit must be used. The nails may be polished and lubricated using a small amount of dry graphite.
Car Modifications Not Allowed
* Wheel bearings, washers, or bushings are prohibited.
* No wet lubrication may be used. It harms the track. Graphite powder is recommended.
* The car must not ride on any type of springs.
* No starting devices, propulsion, or additional power. The car must be freewheeling.
* No loose material of any kind, such as lead shot, may be used.
* Pre-made car kits violate the spirit of this event.
* If you have a question about what is allowed, please check with pack officials before race day.
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