What is a Pinewood Derby?
The Pinewood Derby is an annual event where the Cub Scouts design, build and then race a car made from a block of pine wood. The car kit is provided by the Pack, however, the Cub Scouts will need help with this project. A list of our Pack rules can be found below.
Additionally, if you intend to race at a district level event, you will need to review their rules as well.
Must we use the kit provided?
Yes. If you lost a part or otherwise need a new kit, contact the Cubmaster.
What is the maximum weight allowed?
5.000 oz, meaning anything 5.001 oz or greater will need to have a modification made to reduce the weight before being allowed to check-in for the event.
What are the rules?
- Cub Scouts should build a new car each year. No using last year's car.
- Cars must use a Pack provided BSA approved block, wheels, and axles. Very simply, use the parts that you were provided in the box. No substitution of wheels, axles or wood. You may add items to the car for decorative purposes. For example, gluing a windshield and Lego figure to your car is fine, but the basic structure of the car must be the items provided in the box. If you need to replace a part for any reason, contact the Cubmaster or Race Official to get a part from a spare kit.
- The wheelbase (length and width between axles) may not be changed from the kit provided. The block provided with the kit contains precut grooves for the wheels and axles. Please use these grooves and do not relocate them. If the block you received has damaged grooves, please get a replacement from the Cubmaster.
- Nothing may be added to the bottom of the car which makes it lower to the ground. The distance the car rides above the ground in the BSA kit allows it to ride smoothly along the track. A lower car will rub on the track causing it to slow down or leave the track while racing.
- Cars may not exceed 5.000 oz in weight.
- Once cars pass weigh in and inspection at derby check-in, they may only be handled by derby officials or as directed by an official by the Cub Scouts such as bringing cars to and from races. Any necessary repairs after check-in will be conducted by a Pack-designated Pit Crew official.
- Do not bring graphite in the church building. Graphite is very slippery and creates a safety issue for the church if spilled on the floor. Final application of graphite may be done outside in the parking lot prior to weigh-in.
- The Pinewood Derby is an event for Cub Scouts to exercise their creativity and to use design and crafting skills. As such, cars should be designed and built by scouts with parent/guardian help only when necessary. Younger Cub Scouts will need more help than older one. The goal is for the Cub Scouts to exercise increasing intellectual ownership and hands-on craftsmanship in their cars with each passing year.
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