March 2000

Pinewood Derby Purpose and Rules

There's nothing wrong with wanting to build the fastest pinewood derby car you can. But it is important to remember why the Pinewood Derby races exist. The Pinewood Derby was started to promote learning, competition, and sportsmanship.

Learning is an important part of the pinewood derby races. The Cub Scout should not only learn about such concepts as friction and gravity, but they should learn how to work with power tools safely. Depending on the experience of the Cub Scout, it may be necessary for adult supervision while building the pinewood derby car. This is a great way for an adult and a Cub Scout to spend time together.

In competition, there is always a person that wins and a person that loses. Competition drives us to do our best. By participating and competing, we broaden our knowledge, skills, and become a better person. The only loser is the person that refuses to better him or herself.

Sportsmanship involves both following the rules and how you behave at the pinewood derby. No matter how your car performs, you want to behave in a manner that will allow you to feel good in days to follow.

It is important to follow the rules in the pinewood derby car kit and any rules established by the local pinewood derby committee. The rules in the kit are as follows:

1. The overall width of the car shall not exceed 2-3/4 inches.
2. The width between the wheels shall not exceed 1-3/4 inches.
3. The overall length of the car shall not exceed 7 inches.
4. There shall be a 3/8 inch clearance between the bottom of the car and the track.
5. The weight of the car shall not exceed 5 ounces.
6. Wheel bearings, washers, and bushings are prohibited.
7. The car shall not ride on springs.
8. Only official wheels and axles are permitted.
9. Dry graphite is the only lubricant allowed.
10. The car must be free-wheeling with no starting devices.
11.The car must pass inspection by the committee at registration.