The DerbyWorx Pro Rail Rider Tool is a precision instrument designed for Pinewood Derby car enthusiasts seeking a competitive edge. This tool simplifies the process of achieving optimal wheel alignment using the Rail-Rider method, resulting in a faster and straighter running car, even without a test track. By precisely bending the axles, the Pro Rail Rider Tool minimizes friction and maximizes performance. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the tool, its features, and how to use it effectively.
Understanding the Rail-Rider Method with the Pro Rail Rider Tool
The Rail-Rider method focuses on strategically aligning the car’s wheels to leverage the track’s guide rail for speed and stability. The Pro Rail Rider Tool facilitates this by allowing for precise axle canting, typically at angles of 1.5° and 2.5°. This intentional bending of the axles reduces friction and allows the car to “ride” the rail, minimizing contact with the track surface. The tool works in conjunction with the DerbyWorx Pro Axle Press (sold separately) to ensure accurate and consistent axle bending.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the DerbyWorx Pro Rail Rider Tool
Before starting, ensure you have the Pro Rail Rider Tool, a Pro Axle Press, a hammer, a marker, and a solid work surface. Prepping your axles with a Pro Body Tool is also recommended for optimal results.
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Mark Your Axles: Place a small dot on each axle head using a marker for reference during the bending process. This ensures consistent alignment.
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Secure the Axle: Insert an axle into the Pro Axle Press, extending the head approximately half an inch. Rotate the axle so the marked dot faces downwards (6 o’clock position).
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Position the Tool: Slide the Pro Rail Rider Tool onto the axle press, aligning the axle shaft within the tool’s groove. Use the 2.5° side for rear axles and the 1.5° side for front axles.
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Bend the Axle: Ensure the axle head’s dot remains at the 6 o’clock position. Press the head firmly against the Pro Rail Rider Tool. While holding the assembly securely on a solid surface, use your thumb to maintain pressure on the axle head and your index finger to stabilize the opposite end of the tool. With a hammer, gently tap the top of the tool two or three times.
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Repeat for All Axles: Repeat steps 2-4 for each axle, remembering to use the appropriate angle (1.5° for front, 2.5° for rear).
Fine-Tuning Your Pinewood Derby Car for Optimal Performance
After bending the axles, assemble the car with the marked dots facing upwards (12 o’clock position).
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Verify Rear Wheel Alignment: Roll the car on a level surface. The rear wheels should maintain contact with the axle heads. Adjust axle head rotation slightly if needed.
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Identify the Dominant Front Wheel: Determine which front wheel carries more weight or causes the car to rock slightly when pressed. This is your dominant wheel.
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Adjust for Steering: The dominant front wheel should gently guide the car into the track’s rail. Test the car’s drift and adjust the dominant axle’s rotation until you achieve a slight drift away from the dominant wheel (approximately 1 inch over 5-6 feet).
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Secure the Axles: Once satisfied with the alignment, secure the axles in place with glue (if using axle slots).
Achieving a Competitive Edge with the DerbyWorx Pro Rail Rider Tool
The DerbyWorx Pro Rail Rider Tool empowers Pinewood Derby car builders to achieve precise axle alignment, leading to significant performance gains. By mastering the Rail-Rider technique with this tool, you can unlock your car’s full potential and significantly increase your chances of winning. Remember to practice and experiment to find the optimal alignment for your specific car and track conditions.
