I have a thought, as I have begun the process of building the District Rules for 2008-2009 Derby next March. In thinking about what TYPE of racing I would desire for the District Events ( and hopefully have those guidelines flow through to the Unit Level ), I am left with the undeniable truth that RULES are necessary to insure that substituting construction materials and specs does not give a single racer a competitive advantage which exceeds the technical capabilities of a 7-11 year old boy. As I think about each section of the RULES, whether it be wheels, axles, or the block itself, I think to myself " what could a 7-11 year old boy accomplish ".3 Cub Dad wrote:Randy,gpraceman wrote:Please don't ignore a hard look at your rules first. Those that should be thrown out as unenforceable and those that should be included or modified.
Remember, this is Pinewood Derby, not NASCAR.
I think T's point here is valid. Specifically, since you can't inspect for bushings, or grooves, or bore modifications short of a post race teardown, should they all be allowed? I think that bushings and bore modifications are beyond most Cubs, (and most dad's) capabilities.
And yes, while extreme overlube that would drip out is easily inspected out, some overlube that come out under high rpms, that could slick the track, is not inspectable. You've never found a greasy film on the track after allowing liquid lubes?????
(btw- I TOLD you the comparison was over the top , no, I'm not comparing PWD to drugs, just the thought process of "oh well, if we can't stop it, just allow it", I don't think that should be part of the decision)
Steve
Several items clearly would be a challenge for that age group - using a precision lathe would be one of them, as an example. Clearly a Scout COULD take a Wheel Jig and hold sandpaper up to a spinning wheel to remove imperfections, as well as sandpaper and emory board to a spinning nail to accomplish the same goal.
Personally I find that I am completely comfortable with drawing the line at procedures that would require lathe work, such as the type of pre-purchased "grooved" or slotted axles, as an example.
I have chosen to go completely overboard with the DETAILS contained within the rules, in that I am methodically breaking down each section, then supplying a complete page of "acceptable" photos and "non-approved" photos to eliminate ( hopefully ) any "interpretations" of the rules. I believe that making this extra effort will also have the added effect of sifting down to the Unit Level as construction guidelines, helping to aleviate potential headaches at that level of competition. I am of the opinion that if there remains a "what if" question, then the rules are not clear enough.
It is my hope that by demonstrating within the rules a fore-knowledge of the "tricks" out there for hidden speed advantages will put parents on notice that we are fully aware of what is out there to tempt them, and the measures we are willing to take to level the playing field for all scouts.
A few things I am still playing with as potentials:
Prohibiting Glued in Axles, and requiring that ALL axles be held in place by BSA Axle Guards:
I built an entire FLEET of Derby Cars for our Corp Derby Services, and not a single car uses glue in the Axle Slots. I find no credible arguement for allowing glue. I also think that requiring the axle guards provides the following benefits:
Each has 4 screws, allowing for minute weight adjustments at inspection time if slightly over 5.00 ounces.
Plate can be removed and replaced without significantly affecting alignment, allowing for instant inspection of axles for non-spec issues. This would include non-nail axles, etc.
I have never had a single Wheel come loose while using this piece.
Unintended spills or damage to the cars can be repaired without waiting for newly applied glue to dry before re-racing.
Given enough pre-race tuning time, it is feasable to have inspection be conducted with wheels OFF the car, to weigh wheels to spec ( 3.3 grams and up ), inspect axles, and really provide NO rocks to hide under when it comes to those who would circumvent well written rules.
I believe that the PRERACE "build up" after component inspection would also dilute the "EBAY" effect since a buyer would be aware of the likelihood that they would need to know how to take the wheels off, show them at inspection, and put them back on. Again, if the temptation is too costly in the potential for embarrassement on raceday, it helps the entire process by increasing the likelihood that the majority of cars are home built.
I am now prepared to recieve comments, stick in one hand and trash can lid in the other..lol
Nicholas