How to Select Soap Box Derby Car Blueprints

Racing a soap box derby car is only half the fun. Building the right soap box derby car is one of the most rewarding aspects of the hobby. Knowing which kind of soap box derby car to build can be a challenge though, especially for newcomers. Fortunately, there are many soap box derby car blueprints to select from.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Select the Right Soap Box Derby Blueprints

1. Begin by getting measurements of the driver. The driver is going to need to sit down inside the soap box car and you'll need to select blueprints that accommodate their size. Taller drivers will need a longer chassis, for example.

2. Search the Internet for soap box derby car blueprints. There are several designers who offer their blueprints for sale. You may even find a number of starter models for free. The All American Soap Box Derby Association has links to designers, as well as links to the blueprints of other enthusiasts (see Resources below).

3. Choose blueprints that are appropriate for your skill level. Simpler car designs are not as aerodynamic or sleek, but they provide a good foundation of learning that will help in future projects. The simplest car blueprints usually don't include an encased chassis, which is the most difficult part of the car for beginners to shape.

4. Get blueprints that are easy to read. Many designers are guilty of producing blueprints that are very basic and include the necessary schematics but don't include much in the way of explanations or construction alternatives. This is more prevalent in advanced designs.

5. Use a CAD or similar computer design program to design your own soap box derby car blueprints. It's possible to see and adjust the features of your car in real time without having to worry about missing a mistake and discovering it after your car is nearly complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to make an exact duplicate of your blueprints both to keep one as an archival copy and another as a construction copy. Some soap box derby car builders like to build right on top of the blueprints, which can damage or rip them.
• Be aware that some soap box derby blueprints showcase designs for recreational use and not competitive use. Competitive soap box derby blueprints all conform to the most common rules set forth by derby sponsors. Entering a race with prohibited materials is grounds for disqualification.

Resources

• All American Soap Box Derby Association