Unlimited class PWD: advice?

[timinohio]

I just found out that there is an unlimited class in my son's upcoming PWD for the "big kids" to take part in.

Rules:
5 oz. max
Only gravity powered

Track:
Best aluminum track in great condition

Questions:
I was thinking about going with an extended wheelbase.
I like the idea of the RS/RSX/RSN/RSNX wheels. Are the advantages of the needle axles enough to warrant using them over the standard diameter axles? For that matter, do these wheels have enough advantages over ultra thin/light BSA wheels to warrant their use? What about H or V notched wheels?
If I go with the RS/RSX/RSN/RSNX, it's my understanding that rail-riding is not the way to go. Is that correct?
If I go with the RS/RSX/RSN/RSNX, is it still advantageous to raise a front wheel?
If I do NOT go with the RS/RSX/RSN/RSNX, are the graphite coated, notched axles my best bet? Is it feasible for someone to manually straighten, notched, graphite coat, and bend the axles, or am I better off buying them pre-made?

This contest is going to be highly competitive, so anything I can do to gain an advantage is appreciated. Another father produced a radically altered boat for his Scout son in our Raingutter Regatta, so I can only imagine what he will produce for the Unlimited class PWD.

Thanks in advance.

TimInOhio

[RacerX]

Needle axles are always the fastest due to the smaller bore diameter. "Less surface area per rotation=less friction"

RS wheels are designed to Rail Ride.

Krytox 100 for lube best choice if you can.

Axles provided work good, slide round ear ring backs on up to the hear and epoxy them in place then polish the shaft. This will give you a easy adjustment point and a easy axle to work with for what you are looking to do.

Put a hole 90 deg to the axle holes in the bottom of the car to all the axles to be set in place with glue or a small set screw can be obtained from a hobby shop with a RC dept. 1/10 scale electric rc car pinion screws work well also and allow easy disassembly.

Hope this helps

Racer X

[timinohio]

Racer X, thanks for the reply! I understand most of what you have said except this:

Jan 17, 2011 17:04:02 GMT -6 RacerX said:

Axles provided work good, slide round ear ring backs on up to the hear and epoxy them in place then polish the shaft. This will give you a easy adjustment point and a easy axle to work with for what you are looking to do.

Do you mean slide an earring back on the axle until it is against the head of the axle, thereby giving me (and my fingers) a "handle" of sorts when it comes to adjusting the axle?

Thanks!

TimInOhio

[RacerX]

You got it.


Racer X