Cub Scout space derby tips?
 

Hey gang,

My son has finished his space Derby ship. Got any tips other than balance, and straight fins?

I have some questions...

1. The prop is pulled against the hub by the rubber band. Im suprised it isnt setup to freewheel when the rubber band runs out. Normal? Should i graphite it?

2. Two bands or three?

3. Smaller or bigger fins?

4. What do I use for rubber band lubricant?

Thanks?

Let him finish it. And explain why he is doing what he is doing.

So any tips? Im not "that dad" so we can spare further lectures. :-)

Yes to graphite, don't know about the fins.

Glycerin for rubber band lubricant.

Thanks. Mom didnt even blanch when i had him do the rough shaping with her potato peeler lol.

Glycerine? As in the stuff in packets from the grocery store?

Yes. That is the stuff we used in the 40's and 50's for both indoor and outdoor rubber band flight. I think we were using pure gum rubber bands. Today's rubber is probably different. I would test twist the rubber-glycerin a few times out of the model.

Chris, as far as the "lecture", I'm a Geezer. That's what I do.

Check out this link:
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=space%20derby%20ship&source=web&c d=5&ved=0CEEQFjAE&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpack368.tripod. com%2Fid24.html&ei=DfhHUdn_OaXgiwKTzIDoAg&usg=AFQj CNFCxIb77vpX_Sml_qLHQrgmLgCMzQ&bvm=bv.44011176,d.c GE

Big fins. We did this a few years ago and it really didn't work for anyone. Lot of friction on the string. Often times too much power resulted in twisting reaction on the racer. I am very competitive on PWD. On the Space Derby? It seemed very randomized. I don't know if we had more than about two racers even get to the finish line. This is with a Pack that is extrememly competitive for PWD.

Don't know if that helps. It was fun, however.

Larry