Graphite-Coated Pinewood Derby Wheels — Performance Myths Explained
Some racers believe that graphite-coated Pinewood Derby wheels automatically reduce friction and increase speed. While that idea sounds appealing, the truth is more complex. Derby Dust® testing shows that completely coating the wheel tread with graphite can actually hurt performance rather than improve it.
Why a Graphite-Coated Tread Can Slow You Down
Graphite is a dry lubricant that works wonderfully inside the hub and on the axle — where friction is rotational, not linear. But when you cover the tread surface of the wheel, you reduce the controlled friction that helps your car track straight. Instead of gripping the center guide rail, the car slides side to side down the track — similar to a dragster doing a burnout.
When the tread loses traction, the car begins to fishtail or oscillate, wasting valuable energy and time.
What Graphite Is Actually Good For
- Coating the axle shaft for a low-friction bearing surface.
- Polishing the inner bore of the wheel hub for smooth rotation.
- Creating a thin graphite film between wheel and axle head to prevent micro-chatter.
These areas benefit from graphite because they manage rotational friction — not the rolling friction that keeps your car tracking true.
Derby Dust’s Recommendation
We do not recommend full graphite coating of wheel treads. Instead, use Derby Dust® Graphite Lubricants correctly in the axle and hub interface.
If you want better wheel performance, focus on precision machining and balance:
- Derby Dust® Speed Wheels — lathe trued and matched for reduced runout.
- Speed Axles — polished and straightened for smoother rotation.
In Summary
Graphite-coated wheels may look “race-ready,” but physics says otherwise. Controlled traction — not total slipperiness — keeps a Pinewood Derby car stable, straight, and fast.
Use graphite where it belongs — in the hub and axle — not on the tread.
Learn more: Pinewood Derby Wheel Information | Wheel Inspection Guide | Graphite Lubes