Car guide

Pick up your kit, build your car, and get ready to race.

Car kit pickup

Bring $10 per registered racer for event registration and your car kit.

Where

4804 NW 2nd Court
Ankeny, IA 50023

Check your GPS: it should take you to the intersection of Abbie Dr and 2nd Street.

When

Monday–Friday
6–9 pm
Saturday–Sunday
9 am–9 pm

No pickup December 20–28.

Pickup is self-service, so there’s no need to call. Car kits are in a box by the front door. Leave your payment in the envelope provided.

If these times don’t work for you, email todd.m.dresser@outlook.com.

Decorated pinewood derby cars lined up before racing.

Rules & guidelines

Car specifications

Most measurements match the kit’s original block of wood.

Maximum width
2¾ inches
Maximum length
7 inches
Maximum height
4¼ inches
Maximum weight
5 ounces
Minimum width between wheels
1¾ inches
Minimum bottom clearance
⅜ inch
Distance between axles
4⅜–4½ inches

General rules

  • Display your assigned race number on top of the car. Your number is provided when you register online.
  • Bearings, washers, and bushings are not permitted on wheels. Washers may be used as car weights.
  • The car must not ride on springs.
  • Only official Cub Scout Grand Prix Pinewood Derby wheels and axles are permitted.
  • Only dry lubricant is permitted.
  • The car must be freewheeling, with no starting devices.
  • Every car must pass inspection. If adjustments are needed, you’ll have time to make them.
  • Cars must have four wheels, and all four must contact the track.

Construction & design

Make it their own

Let your Girl Scout draw a shape on the side of the block, use a coping saw to cut it out, and smooth the edges with sandpaper. A simple clamp helps hold the block steady, and an adult can help with the cutting.

It doesn’t need to look perfect. A little imperfection shows the creativity and hard work your Girl Scout put into her car. Building together can be a great bonding activity.

Need a hand with woodworking?

Contact Todd for help. He can assist with individual cars or arrange a troop building session in his garage.

Wheels & weight

Make sure the wheels roll freely and bring the car close to the 5-ounce limit without going over. Smooth wheels and good weight give it the best chance of reaching the finish line.

Paint & decorations

There are plenty of pinewood derby design ideas online. Todd’s family has had good results with Crayola washable kids’ paint, including glitter and metallic colors. Let your Scout choose a design that feels like her own.

The local Boy Scout store carries approved accessories and decals:

Boy Scout Store
6123 Scout Trail
Des Moines, IA 50321

Have fun building, and Go Girl Scouts! We welcome your ideas for making the derby even better.

Race-day location, times & check-in