IMPORTANT !

READ THIS AND FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE BUILDING A CAR!

Before building a car, call the Technical Director, Bob Lechner, 619 754-5089 and let him know.

It can save you much time and money, and grief. If you build a car and it doesn't pass the inspection you don't race, and someone will have very disappointed children.

The guiding philosophy behind Orange Crate Derby is that it is fun for kids. Our motto is “Family, Fun, Fair.” The cars are designed to be as simple but safe as possible, and can be built by adults and kids with commonly available tools and parts. It is not an exercise for adults to compete against each other using Aerospace Engineering skills or manufacturing techniques to win at all costs.

These are the specifications by which all new cars will be inspected for. Cars built before this may be ”grandfathered” in by the Technical Committee. An older car may be required to update parts to make it safe and current.

• Build the cars to these specifications and let the kids help. They love to name them, paint them and drive them.
• New builders must attend at least one “Build-A-Car “ clinic. Bring your unfinished car and ask questions! The dates are shown on the website.
• Use the photos and captions to build your car. If you have any questions, call Bob Lechner, 619 754-5089.
• The frame of the car can be no longer than six feet. A 2x4 bumper may be added to the front.
• No part, including the wheels, can extend beyond the frame.
• The most important aspect of design is the Orange Crate. Build it to the specifications shown. No exceptions.
• Use the fully threaded axle rods available at Home Depot or Lowes.
• Do NOT add fins, spoilers, exhaust pipes, windscreen, steer horns, rear view mirrors, fuzzy dice, etc.
• Use the examples shown to guide the construction of the car.
• Steering wheels are to be made of wood.
• No metal (except those required, like hinges, cables, pulleys, etc) to be in front of the driver.
• ALL cars will have safety sides to protect driver.
• The axles will be under the frame. Use the examples shown to guide the construction of your car.
• No added weights.
• The brake housing must be open and visible
• Read race day instructions

OVERVIEW

Important! – Contact Bob Lechner before you begin working on a car 619 754-5089! We can loan you a car to copy while you build yours. (It makes it so much easier!) Plan to attend the build a car clinics to get approval on brakes, steering and design elements before practice day!

These instructions will describe 7 areas that make up a complete car. Click "Read More" button for step-by-step directions in each section.

1. Frame (or chassis)
2. Steering
3. Brakes
4. Axles
5. Seat and Side Panels
6. Crate
7. Bumper

Download the list of hardware and lumber to purchase. You may download a pdf file with directions and sketches if you want to print something out.