Pinewood Derby

Photos: 2010

The next derby will take place March 10th, 2012 at the Paxton Junior High Commons Area. We will have a Pinewood derby clinic on February 26 to help anyone build their cars. This will be at the scout hut from 2-4pm. Parents must stay with their son.

Questions? Contact the Cubmaster

Pinewood Derby Rules Summary Maximum car width: not to exceed 2-3/4 inches Maximum car length: not to exceed 7-3/8 inches Weight: not to exceed 5 ounces Width between wheels: 1-3/4 inches Must use car, wheels, and axles provided in the Boy Scouts of America the kit Only dry lubricant (graphite) is permitted. See the Official Pack 35 Rules for more information. Race Day Itinerary 9:00 am Leaders set up at commons 10:30am-11:30am Pinecar registration and car show registration, no late entries will be allowed to qualify 12:00 pm Race begins After race Awards ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pinewood Derby?
The Pinewood Derby, a Scouting tradition that began in the 1950's, is an event in which each scout, with the help of his adult partner, builds a race car from a Pinewood Derby kit and races it in a Pack-sponsored race. The focus of this event is not on winning, but rather for a scout to spend quality time with his adult partner, learn craftsmanship skills, and have fun!

Where do I get a Pinewood Derby Car Kit?
Den leaders distributed kits to their scouts at the November Pack Meeting. Scouts that did not receive their kits should contact their den leader.

What is the racing format?
Pinewood Derbies are run with each Den race to determine a Den champion, followed by races amongst the Den champions to determine the Pack champion.

What awards can Scouts win?
All racing awards are based on the fastest average speed for the rounds. The Pack awards trophies to the two fastest cars in each Den, and the three fastest cars in the Pack. In addition, Scouts will vote on the Best In Show amongst all cars in their Den. The top two vote getters receive awards.

What are the rules concerning graphite use?
Although graphite is a key component for improving the speed of Pinewood Derby cars, it also creates a large mess on the cafeteria tables and floor. Graphite use is strictly limited:

• Prior to checking in their cars, Scouts will be directed to a designated "pit" area where they can lubricate their cars prior to check-in.
• Once checked in, cars cannot have any more graphite applied to the wheels the remainder of the day

The Pack Leadership believes these efforts will significantly reduce the mess caused by the graphite and would appreciate cooperation from Scouts and their adult partners to help us be good citizens at the school.

Can non-scouts race?
Sure! The Pack is also sponsoring an Open Division in which all non-Scouts (adults and children) can race. Cars built for this race must adhere to the same rules required for the Scouts' cars.

Helpful Hints

• Give yourself enough time. Building the car - cutting, sanding, painting, preparing the wheels, assembling, and tuning - almost always take longer than you anticipate.
• The wheels are everything! The shape of the car has little impact on the overall speed of the car. Achieve optimal performance by polishing the wheels and axles, lubricating them with graphite, and tuning wheel alignment so the car rolls straight. Other dads with Pinewood Derby experience are also great resources.
• In addition to wheel and axle preparation, weight also plays a key role in car performance. For best results, keep the car weight as close to 5 ounces as possible.