Crafting a champion Pinewood Derby car demands meticulous attention to detail, and axle alignment is paramount for achieving top speeds. The Pro Axle Bender is engineered as the ultimate Bending Tool For Pinewood Derby Cars, providing builders with unparalleled precision and control over axle adjustments. This tool empowers you to fine-tune your car’s alignment, unlocking its maximum potential on the track.
Unlock Peak Performance with the Pro Axle Bender
The Pro Axle Bender isn’t just another tool; it’s a precision instrument designed specifically for the intricate task of bending Pinewood Derby axles. Its fully adjustable design allows for a wide spectrum of bend angles, ranging from a subtle 0.5° to a more pronounced 10°. This extensive range provides flexibility for diverse tuning strategies and axle types. Whether you’re aiming for a classic straight alignment or implementing the advanced “rail rider” technique, this tool delivers the accuracy you need.
What sets the Pro Axle Bender apart is its innovative “Bending Cup” and blade & fork pivot system. This unique combination ensures accurate tracking and prevents damage, even when working with robust stainless steel and titanium axles. Unlike conventional methods that can create unwanted grooves or notches at the bend point, the Pro Axle Bender maintains the axle’s integrity, crucial for consistent performance. Furthermore, the main shaft features machined rings that, in conjunction with the included bending chart, eliminate guesswork. Setting up your car for rail riding or straight alignment becomes a straightforward process, allowing you to focus on other critical aspects of car construction.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Pinewood Derby Axle Bending Tool
To harness the full potential of the Pro Axle Bender, follow these simple yet effective instructions. You’ll need a 3/32″ hex key wrench, a fine-point Sharpie marker, and axles prepared for racing (burr-free and polished).
- Mark Your Axle: Begin by creating a reference point. Use the Sharpie to place a dot on the axle head. This mark will guide your bending and will be essential for consistent axle installation and adjustments in your car.
- Locate the Bend Point: Measure 3/8” or 0.370″ from the axle head along the shaft. Mark this point with another dot, aligning it with the dot on the axle head. This precise location will be where the bend occurs, ensuring the optimal axle length for wheel hub contact, particularly suitable for B.S.A. wheels. The tool’s design, however, accommodates various wheel types, should your project require different bending points.
- Secure the Axle: Loosen the knurled thumb screw on the bender and lift the clamp cap. Insert the axle from underneath, positioning the axle head into the lever’s machined cup. Ensure the dot on the axle head is facing upwards (12 o’clock) and the dot on the shaft aligns with the edge of the clamp cap. Firmly tighten the knurled knob to secure the axle in place.
- Set the Bend Angle: Utilize your 3/32″ hex key to loosen the set screw on the spring collar. Slide the collar to your desired bend degree mark and then tighten the set screw to lock it in position.
- Execute the Bend: Place your thumb on the knob and smoothly pull the lever with your index finger until the spring fully compresses. This action will bend the axle to your pre-set angle.
Important Note: The included bend chart serves as a guideline. It’s always recommended to test the settings on a spare axle first. If a test axle isn’t available, proceed with bending in small increments, especially for your first axle.
Bending Settings Guide
The Pro Axle Bender is versatile and adaptable to different axle materials. Refer to the settings chart below as a starting point for various axle types:
| Axle Type | Full | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.S.A | 8º | 4º | 2º | 0.5º |
| D.W. Pro | 10º | 6º | 3º | 0.5º |
| Stainless | 6º | 3º | 2º | 0º |
| Titanium | 4º | 2º | 1º | 0º |
Pro Tip: Applying a small amount of racing lubricant to the axle groove on the lever will facilitate smoother bending action.
*** The Pro Axle Bender is factory preset for BSA axles at 2.5°. ***
For advanced fine-tuning information, refer to the Pro Axle Bender Fine Adjustment Info.
Elevate Your Derby Car Performance Today
The Pro Axle Bender is more than just a bending tool for pinewood derby cars; it’s an investment in precision and performance. With its robust construction, user-friendly design, and ability to deliver accurate and repeatable bends, it’s an indispensable tool for any serious Pinewood Derby competitor.
Product Details:
- MSRP: $89.95
- Part #: DWXPA 01
- UPC: 91037976536
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