Precious Resources Annual Soap Box
Fill out the forms below or print out the document.
Race Rules & Regulations
Five basic requirements for Soap Box cars and participants:
- LET’S Go!
Each derby car must be gravity powered. No motors or engines. Cars will start from a standstill at the starting line with no ramps and no push. Cars must be no longer than 6 feet, no wider than 4 feet, and height less than 4 feet.
There are no limitations on materials or designs. When using wood, use screws rather than nails and wood glue.
All cars must have four wheels (max.20 inches) and each must always touch the ground. Cars should be built to endure several races without major adjustments. 3-wheel soap box cars for show only. - Gotta Turn!
Simple pivot steering is the most basic and common steering system. The front axle is a solid piece that rotates about a single pivot in the center.
Four bar linkage is like a steering mechanism is more complex and harder to construct but up to the engineer/sponsor constructing recommended.
The Race will be run on a straight course. Please Do NOT design your car to turn on a dime, it is not safe and may cause your car to flip. - Gotta Stop!
Your Soap box car MUST have a braking system capable of slowing the car to a smooth, short, and safe straight line stop without damaging the road surface.
Skid pad on the wheels is a method, set up a pad or brake shoe that rubs against the wheels to stop the car.
Caliper brakes on the wheels allowed.
An anchor or parachute could be used - Approval needed during supervised test run before day of race.
*Precious Resources may or may not have a skid pad on the ground contacting the wheels at the finish line in case of brake malfunctions. - Gotta be Safe!
Helmets (with chin strap) are necessary! Please do not alter helmets in any way that would change their effectiveness. Cars will not be allowed on the track unless the driver is wearing a helmet.
Driver must sit in the car, facing forward, and control the car using only hands and feet. The driver should not be able to contact the road surface or the wheels when seated in the normal operating position.
Recommended - Elbow pads are also strongly encouraged.
Recommended - Long sleeves, pants, and close-toed shoes to reduce road rash.
Cars must have a documented test (video, in person) run prior to the day of the race to ensure safety. - Parental Permission!
*ALL DRIVERS and parents/guardians must sign a waiver/permission form prior to their race. These forms can be obtained at the time of car registration or the morning of the race at check-in.
*A soap box car may be entered in both age categories, which are (7-12) and (13-15)
Entry forms on website and due by on June 29th. Please note that permission slips must be signed prior to the race.
Cars must be at line-up/Showcase by 10:00 A.M. for inspection and show. Race begins at Noon.
Make sure to fill out BOTH forms below.
