How to Build a Non-Motorized Car
Another name for a non-motorized car is a soap box derby car or a wood box car. This car is similar to a Go-Kart, but without the engine. You can make a simple non-motorized car for kids to use out of various pieces of plywood. This type of car is able to coast down an incline or be pushed if it is to be raced on a flat surface. However, you will need materials that can be found at a local home improvement store.
Things You'll Need
- 3 plywood sheets, 4-foot by 8-foot ¾-inch
- Tape measure
- Circular saw
- Wood glue
- Power drill
- Screws
- 4 wheels with brackets
Instructions
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1
Measure a plywood sheet to 4 feet by 2 feet. Make a cut mark with the pencil and cut the plywood with the circular saw. Repeat this step to cut two additional 4-foot by 2-foot pieces.
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2
Measure a second plywood sheet to 2 feet by 2 feet. Make a cut mark and then cut the plywood to this size. Repeat this step to cut two additional 2-foot by 2-foot pieces.
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3
Place the two of the 4-foot by 2-foot sections and the two 2-foot by 2-foot sections together for a frame that is in the shape of a rectangle. Drill four pilot holes at each corner where two boards meet.
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4
Apply a bead of wood glue to the outside edges of the 2-foot by 2-foot plywood pieces. Drive screws in the pilot holes to secure the pieces together.
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5
Place the remaining 4-foot by 2-foot piece of plywood on top of the frame. Drill pilot holes around the perimeter. Apply wood glue to the top of the frame and secure the pieces together with screws.
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6
Turn the frame over so that the open part or top is facing up.
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7
Place the remaining 2-foot by 2-foot piece of plywood on one side of the frame. Drill pilot holes and apply the wood glue. Secure the piece to the frame with screws.
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8
Turn the frame back over so the bottom is facing up.
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9
Set one of the wheels in the corner of the frame. Attach the wheel to the side of the frame with screws using the power drill. Repeat this step to attach the remaining three wheels to the frame.
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10
Place the completed car at the top of a hill with a small grade. Push the car to get it started and see how it rolls down the hill.
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Tips & Warnings
This type of soap box car does not have brakes or steering.
