PINEWOOD DERBY RULES

 

            In order for the Pinewood Derby Race to be as fair as possible to the Cub Scouts, the following rules and explanations have been established as guidelines for eligibility to race:

 

  1. Only Official Pinewood Derby parts may be used in the construction of the race car.  This is in reference to the block of wood, nails and wheels.

 

  1. The wheels may not be altered in any way.  The only exception to this is if you have received wheels that have mold projections on them.  If this is the case, the projections may be sanded down to make the wheels flat.  The wheel cannot be made smaller or have its basic shape changed in any way.

 

  1. The nails (axles) may be polished with a fine abrasive cloth.  They may not be altered in any other way.

 

  1. The length of the wheelbase is pre-selected by the pre-cut slots in the block of wood.  This may not be altered in any way.  The axles must be installed into these slots.  It is recommended that Elmer’s glue or airplane cement be used to hold the axles in.

 

  1. No oils, grease or silicone sprays may be used on the axles or any part of the car.  These items will soften the plastic wheels and will damage the track itself.  ONLY powdered graphite may be used on the axles.  Official Boy Scout kits bought at “L’il Darlings” or “The Scout Shop” may contain lubricants other than powdered graphite.  Please do not use these.  Only powdered graphite is acceptable.

 

  1. The width of the car may not exceed 2 ¾ inches and the length of the car may not exceed 7 inches.  Any extensions to the body of the car must fit within these dimensions.  It is recommended that nothing be attached to the bottom of the car that could come in contact with the track.

 

  1. The weight of the car cannot exceed 5 oz. (140 g.)

 

  1. The car must be free-wheeling with no starting devices.  Wheel bearings, washers and bushings, and springs (shocks) are not allowed.

 

  1. The car may be hollowed out and have weight added to it as long as it does not exceed the allowed weight and that the added weight is properly secured to the car.

 

  1. Details, such as steering wheel, driver, decals, painting, etc., are permitted as long as these details do not exceed the width, length and weight requirements.  All items attached to the car must be securely attached so that they do not come off during a race.

 

  1. Each Cub Scout must use the car number that was assigned to him as per the label on the outside of the car kit box.  Please use the numbered stickers provided and place the number on the front hood area of the race car.  Do not put the number on the sides of the car.

 

  1. Each Cub Scout must present both his car and registration form at the official weigh-in.  Once his registration form and car have been accepted , only Pinewood Derby Officials are allowed to handle the car.  All cars will be returned at the completion of the race or at the Blue & Gold Dinner.

 

  1. The scale used by the Inspection Committee is the only official scale, so please be prepared to add or remove weight on race day.

 

  1. Each car must pass the pre-race inspection by the Official Pinewood Derby Inspection Committee before it can be entered into the race.  The inspectors and all Pinewood Derby Officials have the right to disqualify any car at any time if any of these rules are not followed or for poor sportsmanship.

 

  1.  Cub Scout’s name and den number must be written on the underside of the car in permanent marker or paint pen.