Specialty Tools
In order to implement some of the more difficult procedures needed to dominate the derby, you will need specialty tools such as ultra high grit sandpaper, wheel mandrel, Pro-Axle Press, Pro Shaver XT lathe, files, jewelers rouge, alignment tool, graphite and more.  We will guide you through the use of each one of the specialty tools needed to get the edge on your competition.

Axles
Simply put, the Pinewood Derby is won with dominating axles.  Not only do the axles you receive in your basic kit have scratches, burrs, stamp marks and a dull finish, they aren't even straight. We will guide you through the various procedures to straighten, groove, taper, sand and polish your axles to the mirror finish you need to dominate.

Weight
A derby car can weigh up to 5 ounces.  However, not all weight is the same.  We will show you how to identify and remove the inefficient weight in your car and replace it with more efficient weight in the optimum location to maximize the "kick" at the bottom of the track.  In addition, we describe and offer supplemental weights you can easily apply at weigh-in to reach the full legal limit. 

Wheels
The wheels in the basic kit appear fairly similar to each other.  However, they are made from 16 different molds (1-5, 8-18) and differ in roundness, bore size, mold marks, scratches, etc. We will describe the various wheel elements, friction reduction modifications, polishing steps and specialty tools needed to develop wheels your axles would be proud to race with.

Car Design
Aerodynamics play a significant role in car design but so does balance, weight placement, alignment, friction and extended wheel bases (not allowed in some meets).  In addition, one can build a modification into the car body to provide a legal head start on the other cars.  We'll show you the best design methods for speed as well as for looks.

Equipment Check
Besides specialty tools, there is a myriad assortment of supplies you will need to develop a dominating derby car.  Most of these items you may already have such as a drill, sandpaper, saw, wood putty etc., but what about wheel polish, sanding bits, lubricant, axle polishing compound, ultra fine steel wool, pipe cleaners and a host of other items.  We will help you create your first shopping list so you won't have to keep going out for more.

The Perfect Match
You have spent hours on axles and wheels and now need to pick the best combinations to race.  We will lead you through a detailed testing program to help you determine your best wheels, best axles and, finally the best combinations to put on your car.  Then, we will show you the proper way to pre-race the combinations for a final showdown.