How to Build a Boxcar

Boxcars are simple cars with no engine, like those on a train.

Boxcars are simple cars with no engine, no brakes, and sometimes no steering capabilities. Sometimes boxcars are called soapbox cars, and are raced against each other in soapbox derbies. However, boxcars can even be made of matchboxes and have only the ability to move when pushed or with the help of gravity.

Things You'll Need

• Matchbox
• Two drinking straws
• Tape
• Two toothpicks
• Four plastic wheels

Instructions

1. Empty out a matchbox.

2. Use scissors to cut two drinking straws so that they are each as long as the matchbox is wide.

3. Tape the straws to either end of the matchbox.

4. Insert a toothpick into both straws.

5. Attach a wheel to each side of both toothpicks. You can use wheels like those that come with plastic car models. These can be purchased online, or at your local hobby shop.

References

• Activity TV: How to Build a Magnetic Boxcar
• Kidz World: Soapbox Derby