How to Build a Reverse Dunk Tank

Reverse dunk tanks can be assembled with household supplies.

Whether you are looking to entertain your friends or searching for ideas for an outside event that will draw a crowd, reverse dunk tanks are sure to please. Reverse dunk tanks dump water on a victim's head rather than forcing him to be submerged in a tub of water, and they can be made with supplies found around your house. Reverse dunk tanks take up less space than a traditional dunk tank and can be easily transported to other venues to be used repeatedly.

Things You'll Need

• 20-gallon trash can with a flat bottom
• 4 pieces of 2-foot chain
• 4 rope clips
• 2 tie straps
• 4 mounting bolts
• Toilet flush valve
• Toilet lever
• Aluminum extension bar
• Colander (optional)
• Power drill
• Ladder

Instructions

1. Drill four holes near the top of the garbage can. The holes should be about an inch or two below the rim. Attach the chains to the rope clips and secure to the garbage can by inserting a bolt through the clips, then the holes in the garbage can and finally through corresponding holes on the tie straps. Tighten nuts to secure the bolts in place. This will provide a sturdy support for your garbage can as it hangs above your dunk victim's head.

2. Cut out a hole on the bottom of the garbage can and install the toilet flush valve. Also, cut out a hole near the top of the garbage can for the toilet lever that will be used to flush the water. The flush lever should be located on the same side as the target, as there will be an extension bar connecting the flush lever to the target. Use duct tape to secure the extension bar to the flush lever.

3. Build a target. Use a piece of plywood measuring 2-by-6 feet and add legs so that it will stand up. Cut a hole in the middle of the plywood about the size of a basketball. Behind the hole build a shelf big enough to hold a 20-ounce bottle of water -- this will be the counterweight that will flush the water. Attach a hinged door directly behind the hole so that when it is struck, it will swing back and knock the counterweight off of the shelf. Paint the hinged door a bright color that contrasts the rest of the target, making it easily visible. Attach the counterweight to the extension bar using string.

4. Fill the trash can with water and hang from a basketball hoop or other location high enough to clear the dunk tank victim's head.

Tips & Warnings

• Install a colander below the flush valve to create a shower of water each time the garbage can is flushed.

• You can install a toilet fill valve on the bottom of your garbage can so that it can be filled automatically by attaching a garden hose.

• Always use a spotter when climbing a ladder.

• To avoid lifting heavy objects up a ladder, hang your dunk tank before filling with water.

References

• Gee Three: Build Your Own Dump Tank
• School Carnivals: Carnival Game Ideas