Pit of Fire

General topics of interest to racers and race coordinators alike.
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gpraceman
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Pit of Fire

Post by gpraceman »

Pretty unique idea!
HOT STUFF: Among Bob Wilkes' inventions is the pinewood derby race "pit of fire," which will turn an ordinary pinewood derby race into an extraordinary race. Photo: COURTESY BOB WILKES / HC
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Randy Lisano
Romans 5:8

Awana Grand Prix and Pinewood Derby racing - Where a child, an adult and a small block of wood combine for a lot of fun and memories.
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whodathunkit
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Re: Pit of Fire

Post by whodathunkit »

I hope the cars and track are made out of fire rated wood.
Talk about.. HOT WHEELS.. :sigh: It's a good thing this took place out doors.

From the looks of the 2x4 blocks on the track.. it's a good thing no kids were up close to the track also.
What type of automobile can be spelled the same forwards & backwards?
BallBoy
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Re: Pit of Fire

Post by BallBoy »

I think that's fantastic. Just the kind of thing that cub scout-aged boys would love. I wouldn't want to risk damage to the track either from the fire or the heat, but kudos to Bob Wilkes for coming up with a way to kick a pinewood derby up a notch.
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FatSebastian
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Re: Pit of Fire

Post by FatSebastian »

Usually there is not much clearance between the wheels and the central guide rail. I wonder how reliably cars land after jumping a gap in the track (regardless of whether there is a flame). Is the probability of wiping out on the other side very high? Would rail-riding (adversely) affect the landing? Does one need a specially tapered guide rail on the other side of the jump?
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rpcarpe
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Re: Pit of Fire

Post by rpcarpe »

Wooden cars and flames, perfect combination! I think I'd rather buy an extra ramp section and after the awards get handed out, do the Demolition Derby.

Another idea: Make a Rube Goldberg contraption with mostly PWD cars...
My wife started a new support group... Widows of the Pinewood Derby.
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