CUBMOBILE DERBY

Building and Operating Specifications

These are the specifications for the Cubmobiles. Each den makes one. A graphic of a Cubmobiles' construction, specs, and parts is available at this link.

1. Wheels must not exceed 12 inches in diameter.
2. All wheels must be equipped with solid rubber tires.
3. Wheels may only have sleeve bearings, no ball or roller bearings.
4. Car frame is to be made from 2x4 inch construction lumber.
5. Roundhead ¼ inch bolts should be used to hold frame; screws are a second choice. Nails will work loose.
6. All cars will have a seat and braced backrest and sides, so a boy can steer comfortably with his feet. If car turns, sides on seat will not allow boy to fall out.
7. Steering is done with the feet placed on the front axle; also by holding a rope fastened to the front axle.
8. If threaded axles are used, the nuts should be secured with cotter pins or wire.
9. Front steering axle pivot bolt nut should be secured via double nutting or cotter pin, etc.
10. Cars will be equipped with an adequate safety belt securely fastened to the main backbone of the car.
11. Each Cub Scout, while participating in the race, will wear a protective head covering such as a football helmet, racing helmet, or bicycle helmet.
12. Gloves and kneepads are recommended.
13. The overall length of the car is to be a maximum of 5 feet. Wheelbase (front to rear axle) is a maximum of 4 feet. The width of the car, measured from the circumference of the wheels may vary from 30 to 36 inches.
14. Cars are to be equipped with a handbrake with its rubbing surface faced with a rubber material such as a strip of old tire. This, when dragged on the ground, will stop the car.
15. During the race, two 2x4 inch blocks fastened 1/8 inch from the centerboard will limit the turning radius.
16. Push pole will be used for starting; car should have accommodation for this starting pole. Each car will provide a push pole.
17. Cars will have its den number painted on rear.

Racing Instructions

The following instructions should be given to contestants and parents.

1. Each den has one car, and each boy in the den races the car once. The den with the lowest average racing time wins.
2. Cub Scouts bring car to the inspection station where it is checked.
3. Car and drivers then go to the registration table where names and cars are scheduled.
4. As the announcer calls his name, each Cub Scout moves to the starting line and is helped into his car. Helmet is put on and seat belt is fastened.
5. While car is in motion, driver should not try to stop the car with his feet, they should remain on the steering axle.
6. Cub Scouts should each know how to steer and stop the car using the brake.
7. After each run, the driver should pull car back to the starting line. The Cub Scout should walk near the curb, allowing the next car a clear road.
8. Everyone must remain off the roadway during the race.

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