How to Build a Soap Box Derby Car

The thrill of competition and the race to the finish is all the more exciting in a Soap Box Derby car, since design and construction skills are tested as much as racing skills! It is a great way to have fun with parents and learn about design, engineering and even the physics that go into a successful soap box car.

Things You'll Need

• Racing car kits and wheels
• Car design

Instructions

1. Contact the local director of the Soap Box Derby in your city or one nearby to introduce yourself as a possible contender and get more information.

2. Look at the different kinds of soap box derby cars in the picture gallery on the All-American Soap Box Derby website. Decide the kind of car to build and the racing division in which to participate.

3. Learn about the different shapes of bases and other construction details which will increase speed and control over the car by viewing successful cars and researching how air flow creates drag on an object (simple physics).

4. Order a car kit and the right racing wheels from All-American Soap Box Derby.

5. Set a schedule for the construction that allows plenty of time for testing and practice, especially if you plan to race the car.

6. Build the car according to the directions, using the research information to improve construction within the rules.

7. Paint the car. There are rules about the style and kind of paint, so follow these carefully.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a local Derby association by visiting the website of the All-American Soap Box Derby and clicking on the state map for a list of locations.

• The local Derby association will hold clinics on how to build the car. Plan to attend at least one. The regulations will be explained at these clinics.

• A local sponsor can help offset some of the costs of building a soap box derby car.

• The message board on the website can help with ideas, information and tips.

• Be aware of the rules for building the car. The rules are designed to help the soap box derby car be safe and competitive.