First Timer ?

Don't fret it. It's easy and fun!

  So your little one came home with a box marked "The Kub Kar Kit" that shakes and has some strange pieces, or you are heading to the local Scout Shop to pick one up. We'll help you along to the road of fun and smiles while helping your Cub get the most from these races.

  The first task at hand is to assemble the kit. Most Cub Packs will do this on several meeting nights leading up to the big race event. (Why not come on out to a meeting, help out, and see what goes on too!). This can be as easy as painting the basic block, attaching the wheels and gluing on some weights (more on weights later). Although quick and easy, it probably won't be a winner. 

  Several basic things need to be done. First off, the nails that come with the kit tend to have a bur on them as they are stamped metal. Put these in a small drill and gently file down the inside edge of the nail head and the shaft. Do not take too much off as the wheel will be wobbly. Next, clean any flashing on the wheel and check that it is true and straight. File as required but don't reduce the overall dimensions as this is against the rules. 

  The next task is to make something out of the pine block. This can be as simple as a wedge shaped car, or as elaborate as your imagination can take you. Search Google Images for "Kub Kars" or "Pinewood Derby" for some ideas. The block is best rough shaped with a scroll saw then sanded smooth. Basic art paint or craft spray paints will give it a nice finish. Decals and other graphics are a nice touch too. Remember to keep the bottom of the car plain wood so the race officials can mark it. A good coat of clear finish will seal all the work in, give it a nice look and help the wheels where they touch the sides.

  We now turn to final assembly and tuning the car. When the painting is finished and the wheels and nails are cleaned up, carefully hammer them into the slots on the pine block. A small tack hammer works well. Be careful when attaching the opposite side wheels. Place a small block against the car side so the wheels on the down side don't get damaged. When the wheels are attached, make sure all four wheels are touching the ground and give it a small push. If it turns or makes any scrapping noises, adjust the wheels carefully. Now add lubrication sparingly to each wheel as allowed by the rules (oil or graphite depending on what is allowed). Rotate the wheels to work in the lubricant then test the car on a track if possible. The last step is to weigh the car. There are two categories. Light and Heavy. Light up to 112 grams. Heavy is between 112 and 142 grams. Pick you category and put any necessary weight (but don't go over!) in a hollowed out spot on the bottom of the car with hot glue. Test again and your ready to race!

  On race day, the fun begins. Try to arrive a little before hand. Your cub's pack will be called in to register and weigh their car and will be given a number. The pack leader will make any final adjustments, repairs or weight corrections then give the car a final lubrication if required. The cubs will then sit around the track and wait for the racing to begin. While waiting, place the cars on their backs so the wheels do not get bent or broken. When the first heat begins, a series of racers are called to the start line by number to place their cars at the start of the track. They then walk to the finish to catch the cars. Each cub will race once in each lane and the final time will be an average over these heats. Winning a particular race does not guarantee a final win. Winners in each category are picked by the averaged times of all race heats and will be announced at the end of each category. Depending on the race format, top winners from each pack will be announced and may return a second day to race in the finals. If a cub is picked as a finalist, the car will be held by the race committee until the next race day. A chance to lubricate the wheels will be given before the next race.

  So there you have it. It is a fun filled event sure to bring joy to all. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your Cub Leaders.

  See you at the races!

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Last modified: Tuesday January 16, 2007.