To achieve excellent wheel alignment, an important factor in building a competitive pinewood derby car, using accurately drilled axle holes (instead of slots) is the method of choice.
This article explores techniques, bit size, and tools available to help you achieve excellent pinewood derby wheel alignment. Before drilling axle holes check your local rules to make sure they are allowed.Drill
Bits
Kit
Axle Size
Bit
BSA
0.086 to 0.087
#44 – 0.086
PineCar
0.088
#43 – 0.089
Awana
0.092
3/32 – 0.938
Hand Drill/Pin Vise
Figure 1 – Pro-Body Tool
Drill Press
Figure 2 – Inaccurate holes due to out of square blocks
Figure 3 – Vertical fence creates accurate holes regardless of block shape
Extend the mark from the bottom of the block to the top of the block using a square (or measure and mark near the bottom of the block and near the top of the block, and then join the line with a pencil and ruler). Holes for extended wheelbases are typically positioned 5/8" from the end of the block.
Pinewood derby axles are one inch long, 0.087 inch diameter zinc plated steel nails. The minimal axle treatment is the removal of the burrs and crimp marks with a file, followed by sanding and polishing. When it is allowed by the rules, the axle shaft can be cut with grooved and the head tapered.
An easy way to drill a hole to a set depth is to simply wrap a piece of masking tape around the drill bit and stick the two ends together to form a “flag” on one side of the bit. Stop drilling when the tape brushes away the shaving, indicating that the desired depth has been reached.
Use a Forstner or brad point drill bit the same size as the rod. The point at the center will be reliably dead center. Place the rod and drill bit on a hard flat surface, and with the point of the bit scribe a couple of lines on the rod end. Where the lines intersect will be the center.
There is a common problem that every DIYer or woodworker faces: drilling multiple holes to the same depth. While it seems simple, it can quickly become frustrating when you find yourself with uneven holes. Using masking tape on the drill bit is a popular solution to act as a depth guide.
A very easy way to manage drilling depth is to measure from the tip of the drill bit the depth you wish to go, then mark that length with a small piece of tape.Drill down into wood until you reach the tape touches the surface of the wood.
Introduction: My name is Chrissy Homenick, I am a tender, funny, determined, tender, glorious, fancy, enthusiastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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Figure 1 – Pro-Body Tool
