Straight Runner "S" curve Alignment

Wayne Schmidt
Guest

Straight Runner "S" curve Alignment May 13, 2016 10:20:05 GMT -7

Quote

Post by Wayne Schmidt on May 13, 2016 10:20:05 GMT -7

It may be hard to believe in these rail runner dominated times, but there are still a few of us who enjoy building straight runner cars. Occasionally, I've noticed that one of mine will start down the alignment board turning slightly to one side, then as its speed builds up start turning to the opposite side. I've checked the board and it is flat and level all the way down its length. This "S" curve alignment problem appears to be speed related. Has anyone else encountered this problem and if so, how did they correct it?

Crash Enburn Poll Group Lanterne Rouge Posts: 165	Straight Runner "S" curve Alignment May 13, 2016 10:47:14 GMT -7 Quote Select Post Deselect Post Link to Post Member Give Gift Back to Top Post by Crash Enburn on May 13, 2016 10:47:14 GMT -7 Are you angling your axles? All I can think of is that the direction change is happening when the wheels hit the heads of the axles. Maybe more friction on one side than the other?
	- Eric It's not sawdust. It's man glitter.

Vitamin K
Poll Group

on ur forum, observin' ur cars

Posts: 372

Straight Runner "S" curve Alignment May 13, 2016 13:06:09 GMT -7

Quote

Post by Vitamin K on May 13, 2016 13:06:09 GMT -7

May 13, 2016 10:20:05 GMT -7 Wayne Schmidt said:

I have no idea why this phenomenon might occur, but it does possibly give some insight into velocity related tunings. Makes you wonder about the limitations of what you can discern for a given car without an actual test run.

The BestTrack® Pinewood Derby® Track is the original, first of its kind, fully aluminum Pinewood Derby® track. BestTrack® proudly shipped their first track in 2002. BestTrack® also sells Champ Timers, track lift/level kits, Super Loops, Space Derby BestTrack® Tracks, Trophy stands, test tracks, car carriers BestToss® Bag Toss Games, and other related products. BestTrack® is the preferred track for leagues across America.

CMI started as a software company. It later expanded to sell Xerox machines. The next step was making copies for customers in what was known as Quick Copy. Later a Graphics department was added, for graphic design, to help even more customers get what they need. The Signs department was added for metal signs, vinyl that now has multiple options. The latest addition to the CMI family is the Shipping department which offers USPS, UPS and FedEx. CMI is continually adding services to better help the customers in the area. We would love to help you with your latest project.

Welcome to Derby Evolution! Derby Evolution is a great source for high performance pinewood derby parts including wheels, axles, weights, bodies, and fenders! We are proud to offer the highest quality Pinewood Derby performance products. Our products have helped both league and scout racers all over the United States get into the winner's circle. Get the most for your money and feel confident in your purchases with Derby Evolution. Your Pinewood Derby Evolution Starts Now!

Alphonso Peluso AKA 'The Fonze' has been racing in the leagues since 2016. He was bitten by the pinewood derby bug after he and his son entered their first scout pinewood derby race. Alphonso is an Architect and College Professor who's work is centered around 3D Printing. All of his derby cars are 3D Printed and he was the first racer to build 3D Printed Cars. He spent 2 years perfecting his 3D Printed Car Bodies. In 2018 he became the first racer to win the Man of the Mountain with a 3D Printed Car when he won the Unlimted Championship. You can now purchase the same car bodies that Alphonso has perfected over the years.

Located in the southern Utah town of St George, Sweenks has been and are doing laser engraving and laser cutting projects for individuals all over. Working out of a home studio, they are able to provide custom and unique items to family, friends and everyone else! Sweenks hopes you enjoy browsing their site. If there is something that catches your eye, feel free to customize it as you wish. If it is close to what you need or you want something else entirely, please contact them to request a quote and give us a chance to help you meet your needs.

Welcome to TxChemist! TxChemist has been a regular contributor on the Pinewood Derby boards for many years and has also provided helpful statistical and scientific Pinewood Derby data. Now he is offering the TxChemist Tungsten weight system! These weights are 99.95% pure tungsten! If you want a fast car, you must put the biggest engine available behind the back axle. That means pure 99.95% tungsten from TxChemist Bigger engine, better center of gravity, higher speed.

Straight Runner "S" curve Alignment

Post by Wayne Schmidt on May 13, 2016 10:20:05 GMT -7

Post by Crash Enburn on May 13, 2016 10:47:14 GMT -7

Post by Vitamin K on May 13, 2016 13:06:09 GMT -7

NPWDRL FACEBOOK

TRACK RECORDS

PWD HELP LINKS

NPWDRL SPONSORS

NPWDRL LINKS