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Post by Wheelnsportsman on Dec 26, 2006 9:34:33 GMT -6
Can anybody clarify a rule for me? Does a pinewood derby car HAVE to be 7" in lengnth? I understand it to be 7" maximum length.... but can it be shorter & still be legal? My son has his heart set on a short car design but, I would hate for him to be disqualified on race day!  Thanks |
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Post by slkrnsntracing on Dec 26, 2006 9:56:45 GMT -6
Can anybody clarify a rule for me? Does a pinewood derby car HAVE to be 7" in lengnth? I understand it to be 7" maximum length.... but can it be shorter & still be legal? My son has his heart set on a short car design but, I would hate for him to be disqualified on race day! Thanks Wheelnsportsman, 7" is the maximum length, but they can be shorter. (Hint) Stay as close to 7" as possible. 5oz is the maximum weight, but they can weigh less. (hint) Stay as close to 5 oz as possible. Allow a little room for error so he won't be disqualified, remember to allow for paint thickness and weight. Good luck. Phil |
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Post by Wheelnsportsman on Dec 26, 2006 10:54:58 GMT -6
Thanks Phil,
That is how I understood it as well. Why stay as close to 7" as poss.? Do you think it unwise to run a 6" car? My son's design is 6"... I dont know why.
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Post by slkrnsntracing on Dec 26, 2006 11:31:44 GMT -6
Thanks Phil, That is how I understood it as well. Why stay as close to 7" as poss.? Do you think it unwise to run a 6" car? My son's design is 6"... I dont know why. Wheelnsportsman, The short length will slow it down some. The weight will have 1" less to fall. If your son has his heart set on it, then his satisfaction might be more important that the time you would loose. If you keep the weight to the back (It should balance 3/4" to 1" in front of rear axle), align it properly, and get the wheels and axles as good as your rules allow (some packs allow a lot of modifications, and others are very strict), it could still be a very fast car. Would it be possible to stretch the design some??? Just remember that there will be parts of this whole experience that your son will remember longer than whether he won or not. Good luck Phil |
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Post by wisconsinraiderfan on Jan 31, 2007 21:01:12 GMT -6
The other reason to maximize lenth is that a longer wheel base provides greater stability as it speeds down the track. A shorter wheel base has a greater tendancy to rock and bank off the center guide rail greatly slowing down your car. Someone else mentioned going along with what the scout wants. You can also educate him as to the different effect of short/long wheel bases and let him make an educated decision. My son when given explanation usually always sides on speed.
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