Derby Talk

In our Pack only dry lubricants are allowed. WD-40, Nyoil and krytox are not allowed as some would overuse dripping on the floor and track.

OK, I see the point. The smaller bore is turning slower than the larger bore relative to the outer rim speed. Polish the bore but don't enlarge it as long as it rolls freely.

Besides polishing the bore I also take put graphite on pipe cleaners and apply to the bore. Any issues with this?

I used 3/4 as an example more than a reccomendation.

I do find that 3/4 is just about perfect though but right at the edge on a standard wheelbase, sometimes competition requires pushing it to the limits.

Hmmm, might that also mean more friction? Less surface means that surface is rubbing more thus creating more heat? Friction is the enemy, but then a larger bore would also mean more instability/wobble.

Yes I do polish the bore and I think wobble is worse.

Any other opinions?

Thanks Teeman, that was the chart I was looking for.

Reading the chart brings up another question. Bore size, if 7 & 12 are the favorites, I assume the bore size needs to be increased. How much?

In my experience put the longer wood to the front. 2 reasons: 1. Keeps the wheels on the hill longer. 2. The weight can be further back in the car. Lets say the balance point is 3/4 on an inch in front of the rear axel. If the axel is further back then the weight is further back and also on the hill...

I know some time back there was a chart that rated the wheels based on mold #s. Does anyone know how to find that chart? Any thoughts other than the chart as to which were the best?

My son tried to get interest for a PWD to little avail so he is relegated to the sibling’s race at the Pack level (only 3 races left but that should carry him to senior year). With so many other competing interests to scouts adding another fairly labor intensive activity is tough. On a district leve...

I believe the original question was to shorten the body but keep the standard wheelbase. The answer is the shorter body would get car off the hill faster assuming the wheels were mounted as far back as possible on a standard body. I discussed the extended wheelbase as that is what the poster was try...

Being the district chair for our PWD I thought I should chime in about the rules and these wheels. First it's probably too late for this season as the rules were put out in December (or should have been) and it was clearly stated the wheels from the kit must be used. I never like changing rules mids...

It's the wheelbase relative to the weight, not the length. The longer wheelbase allows the weight to be further back and on the hill longer. The energy is generated when the weight basically falls down the hill. The longer it is falling down the hill the more energy thus more speed. If you have the ...

Just read this posting. I assume I am too late for the first PWD but would love to help with the next. Is there still one planned for the local kids? How would we go about helping?

My son's car last year had the raised nose in the form of a snake head on a thin neck coming off the main body. It looked very cool, got a great start and took the design award at district. It would have failed the 1/4" rule which would have been a shame. Our pack purchased a new Piantedosi alu...

Thanks Buckeye

I assume you mean a boring bar? Where did you get it?

Thanks

I tried using a cutting tool like you mentioned and it bit in to much and quickly ruined the wheel. I the took a wooden dowel with the center drilled out that barely fit inside the wheel and put sandpaper on it. The sandpaper ripped and too much heat was generated. I know that lathed out wheels can ...