Pinewood Derby Hub FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where can we get our Pinewood Derby kit?

Your local Scout shop has them. Scout leaders may arrange ways to directly provide them to members of your Cub Scout pack, and you can always order kits through the MCC Scout Shop.

Who builds the car?

Participating in a Pinewood Derby is a team effort for a Cub Scout and an adult mentor. They design the car and build it together, and then enter it in the race. Each Scout can work with one or both parents, a guardian, grandparent, or other mentor.

What are the weight limits for a Pinewood Derby car?

All cars in a Pinewood Derby® must be of a certain size and weight so they have an equal chance to win. Using the official Pinewood Derby® kit will ensure that you start with the correct size. For most derbies, the finished car can weigh no more than five ounces.

What are the other rules?

Each Cub Scout pack decides its own rules. For most derbies, your car must be built with the parts found in the official BSA Grand Prix Pinewood Derby® kit - the wooden block, official BSA® wheels, and axles. Paint, decorations, decals, and weights can be added as long as the final car stays under five ounces.

Can we substitute our own wheels, axles, or wood block for those from the Pinewood Derby® kit?

No. Starting with identical materials gives every Cub Scout a fair chance in the derby, but there are fun wheel and axle kits in regulation available at the MCC Scout Shop.

How can we make our car go fast?

There are lots of different ways! Check out our tips here: 10 Tips and Tricks to a Fast and Cool-Looking Pinewood Derby Car.

Is it okay to lubricate the axles?

Check your Cub Scout pack's rules. Dry lubricant such as powdered graphite is often allowed.

How can we practice before a race?

A Pinewood Derby® Practice Track for testing the speed and balance of a car can be purchased. Some Scout Shops offer free weigh-ins. There are some packs who offer test runs the night before the race.