Creating a Winning Pinewood Derby Car

There is no secret to creating a winning Pinewood Derby car; all racers need is a great design and an understanding of these tips that trick their cars out for maximum speed.

In three sections, this handbook takes builders from the beginning of car construction to ultimate derby-winning modifications.

The Basic Car

The "basic car" section addresses broad building concerns such as cutting the design, attaching and lubricating the wheels, and balancing the weight.

Winning Car Secrets

"Winning car" secrets include extending the vehicle base, polishing axles, and modifying and aligning the wheels.

The Ultimate Car

Finally, the championship techniques of the ultimate car are revealed, allowing builders to shave those last tenths of a second off their times and go home with the trophy.