Building a Pinewood Derby car is a cherished tradition for Cub Scouts and their families, offering a fantastic opportunity to bond, learn basic woodworking skills, and engage in friendly competition. To create a winning car, or simply a car you’re proud of, having the right tools and materials is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential items you’ll need to get started on your Pinewood Derby project.
Essential Tools for Cutting and Shaping
The first step in building your Pinewood Derby car is shaping the wooden block. Here are some key tools that will help you achieve your desired design:
Scroll Saw
A scroll saw is an excellent tool for making precise and intricate cuts in the Pinewood Derby block. It allows for curved and detailed shapes that are difficult to achieve with other saws. For younger scouts, adult supervision and guidance are essential when using a scroll saw to ensure safety and accuracy. As experience from the original article highlights, even young scouts can become proficient with this tool under proper guidance.
Rasps and Files
Once the initial cuts are made, rasps and files are indispensable for refining the shape of your car. Rasps are coarser and effective for removing larger amounts of wood quickly to achieve the basic contours. Files, with their finer teeth, are then used to smooth out the rasp marks and further refine the shape, creating a smoother surface ready for sanding. Gloves are recommended when using rasps and files, especially for children, to protect hands.
Dremel Tool (Rotary Tool)
A rotary tool, like a Dremel, can be incredibly versatile for Pinewood Derby car building. While it may require more control and practice, it’s excellent for detailed shaping, carving out weight pockets, and creating aerodynamic features. However, as mentioned in the original article, some may find smaller rotary tools challenging to control, and they might be slow for larger material removal. Consider this tool for finesse work and detailing rather than primary shaping for beginners.
Drill Press with Drum Sander and Router Bit
For more advanced shaping and creating precise weight pockets, a drill press can be adapted with attachments. A drum sander attachment, used at slow speed, can help smooth curves and surfaces more uniformly than hand sanding alone. A router bit, when used with a depth stop, is perfect for creating consistent and accurately sized weight pockets on the underside of the car. Safety is paramount when using a drill press, especially with router bits. Always practice on scrap wood first and ensure the car is securely clamped.
Essential Materials for Building Your Car
Beyond tools, having the right materials is equally important for constructing a successful Pinewood Derby car.
Pinewood Derby Block
The official Pinewood Derby kit typically includes a standard-sized pine block. This block is the foundation of your car and will be shaped and modified. It’s a good idea to have a few extra blocks on hand for practice or in case of mistakes.
Weights
Weight placement is crucial for maximizing your car’s speed. Pinewood Derby cars have a maximum weight limit, usually 5 ounces. Various types of weights are available, including lead, tungsten putty, and steel weights. Tungsten putty is particularly popular due to its high density and ease of molding into weight pockets. Strategic placement of weight, often towards the rear of the car, can significantly improve performance.
Wheels and Axles
The wheels and axles are critical components that directly impact your car’s speed. The kit usually includes plastic wheels and metal axles (nails). For optimal performance, consider polishing the axles to reduce friction and ensure they are perfectly straight. You can use fine grit sandpaper and polishing compounds for this. Lubricating the axles with graphite is also a common practice to minimize friction.
Sandpaper
A variety of sandpaper grits are essential for achieving a smooth finish on your car body. Start with coarser grits (like 80 or 120) to remove rasp and file marks, then progressively move to finer grits (220, 320, or even finer) for a smooth, paint-ready surface. Sanding blocks can help ensure even sanding and prevent rounding over edges unintentionally.
Paint and Finish (Optional)
While not strictly necessary for performance, painting and finishing your car allows for personalization and adds to the overall pride in your creation. Use paints suitable for wood, and consider clear coats to protect the paint and further enhance the finish. Remember that every layer of paint adds weight, so apply paint in thin, even coats.
Safety First
When working with tools, especially power tools, safety should always be the top priority. Adult supervision is crucial for young scouts, particularly when using saws, drills, and rotary tools. Always use safety glasses to protect your eyes from wood dust and debris. Clamps and vises are essential for securing the workpiece, keeping hands free and safe. Take your time, practice each step on scrap wood first, and never rush the process.
By gathering these essential tools and materials, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on the exciting journey of building your own Pinewood Derby car. Enjoy the process, learn together, and have fun racing!
