Simple Tips and Instructions

What You’ll Need:

• Pinewood Derby car kit (block of wood, wheels, axles)
• Sandpaper (medium and fine)
• Small saw (hand saw or coping saw)
• Wood file or rasp
• Pencil and ruler
• Drill (with adult help)
• Weights (zinc, tungsten, or washers)
• Wood glue or super glue
• Paint and brushes
• Stickers or decals (optional)
• Safety goggles
• Scale (to check weight)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Plan the design.
   Use a pencil to draw the shape of the car on the wood block. Keep it simple and remember the size rules.
2. Cut the shape.
   Use a small saw to cut out the car shape. Adults may assist, but Scouts should do as much as they safely can.
3. Smooth the body.
   Use a file first, then sandpaper to round edges and remove rough spots.
4. Add weight.
   Drill small holes in the bottom or back of the car for weights. Glue them in. Try to get close to the limit (usually 5 ounces).
5. Paint the car.
   Use light coats of paint. Let it dry between coats. Add stickers or designs if you like.
6. Attach the wheels and axles.
   Line them up straight. Wheels should spin freely. Glue axles if allowed in your pack’s rules.
7. Test and adjust.
   Check the weight with a scale. Add or remove weights if necessary. Make sure wheels turn and the car runs straight.
8. Store safely.
   Keep the car in a safe place until race day to avoid damage.

Extra Tips and Safety Notes:

• Always wear safety goggles when using tools.
• Adults should supervise tool use.
• Don’t use power tools unless your pack allows it and an adult handles them.
• If you want to try a different design later, some packs do extra races with different rules.
• Many packs have “outlaw” races just for parents and siblings.

For more information, see https://scoutermom.com/1530/pinewood-derby-cars/