Pinewood Derby

Official Race Rules

Pack 242

 

Car Dimensions:

• The overall length shall not exceed 7 inches.
• The overall width of the car shall not exceed 2 ¾ inches.
• The car must have 1 ¾ inches clearance between the wheels.
• The car must have 3/8 inch clearance underneath the body so it does not rub on the track.

 

Car Weight:

• The car weight shall not exceed 5.0 ounces.
• The official race scale shall be considered final.

 

Wood, Wheels & Axles:

• The official pine wood block must be used.  The block may be shaped in any way that is desired.
• Official BSA wheels must be used.  The wheels may not be cut, drilled, beveled or rounded.  You may remove the seams and imperfections from the wheels.
• The axles may be polished and lubricated. (BSA axles only)

 

Car Modifications NOT Allowed:

• Wheel bearings, washers or bushings are prohibited.
• The car must not ride on any type of springs
• No starting devices.  The car must be free wheeling.
• No loose material of any kind, such as lead shot, may be used.

 

Other Pinewood Derby Race Rules:

• Once a car passes inspection and is entered into the race, only race officials may touch it.
• If the car loses a wheel, or is otherwise damaged, the racer shall have 5 minutes to make repairs.
• Each car must inspection by the official before it will be allowed to compete.  Any car not meeting rules will be disqualified.
• No other lubricants other than dry graphite will be allowed on cars.
• Cub Scouts will be allowed ONE current car to enter race.
• No cars may register after the race begins.
• All cars will be impounded at registration and no work is to be done after impound.
• If a car leaves it’s lane, that race will be re-run.  If that car leaves it’s lane the second time, that car will be scored as last place for that heat.
• Races will be run as “Heat Races” with each car rotating through each lane.  3 points for 1^st place, 2 points for 2^nd place, 1 point for 3^rd place.  All other positions will not be awarded points.  The top car from each heat race will advance to the semi-finals, and the same will apply for the finals.  The cars with the most points in each den will be the winner for that den.  The top car from each den will race for Pack Overall, under the same format.
• Only race officials may enter the track area.