How to Build a Car With Rubber Bands & Weights

Rubber bands are very versatile.

Rubber bands are so common that many of us don't think twice about their potential everyday uses. One benefit of a rubber band is its almost limitless energy potential. You can harness this energy to do many things. One such thing is the propulsion of a cardboard car. This unique toy car will provide you with hours of entertainment and a sense of pride at having created something with your own hands.

Things You'll Need

• 5x6 inch piece of cardboard
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Wooden skewer
• Duct tape
• 2 faucet washers, 1/4 inch
• 2 CD's
• Poster putty
• Rubber band
• Pen or pencil

Instructions

1. Cut a rectangular notch in the cardboard. The notch should be in the center of the shorter side. It should be 2 inches wide and 1/2 inch deep. Remove and discard the notch.

2. Slide the skewer into the outer edge of the cardboard. Make sure it sticks out evenly on both sides and rotates freely. This will be your axle.

3. Find where the skewer meets the notch. Wrap a small piece of tape in the middle of this area to make a "catch" for the rubber band.

4. Hold a washer up to the center of the CD. Slide both onto the skewer. Make sure you leave plenty of room between the wheel and the cardboard. Attach poster putty at each end of the washer. This will connect the axle and the CD to the washer. Repeat this process for the other wheel.

5. Attach one end of the rubber band to the side opposite the axle. Wrap the other end over the catch. Turn the axle several times. When the axle unwinds, your car will propel forward.

References

• Technically Learning: Rubber Band Race Car
• Malaysian Mini Lover: How to Build a Rubber Band Car