How Do I balance the weight for my Pinewood Derby Car

Applying Weights (if weights are not installed) 

We are going to take adding weights into two parts so that we can properly adjust our COG. To do this, we first only install the rear weight as this time. Adding the remaining weight will be the second part – Adjusting COG

Rear weight is weight behind the rear axle. If using cargo or canopy weights, please skip to next section

• Using an epoxy is the preferred glue of choice. Gel super glue is next in line. Yellow or wood glue will not work.
• If you are melting lead have your child watch from far away (Adult only). Once lead is poured wait for it to cool before proceeding.
• Once rear weights are installed, apply wood putty to cover the weight. Please DON’T putty any underside pockets. For underside pockets use foil HVAC tape instead. It will take too long for wood putty to dry and is not necessary.

If using a cargo or canopy style weight. DO NOT glue in place until the COG is adjusted. Skip to Adjusting COG.

 Adjusting COG (30 mins)

• Assemble your tooling – COG stand, additional weight to bring the car to final weight range, mockup wheels and axles, and a weight scale that measures in grams.
• Mark the desired location on your car body for balancing based on your track conditions. 
• Weigh your car as is with wheels and axles on the scale. It should be underweight at this point. Set aside whatever weight is needed (usually with tungsten putty) to bring the car, axles, and wheels to a working weight of 131 grams (125 grams if using putty to cover weight).
• Push in wheels and axles only for the purpose of finding COG. Do not fully install them. Final wheel and axle installation is done after the car is painted. This is not permanent at this time, do not use glue.
• Once COG is attained, note the location of where the balance takes place. Install the remaining weight ballast in the car. Recheck COG to assure it is properly placed. Glue in place to ensure that it will not come loose during racing. Apply wood putty to cover the weight installed from the side or back of the car. Finish painting your car. Use foil tape for any underside pockets.
• TAKE any remaining tungsten putty with you to final check-in on race day to bring the car to the official 5.000oz on the official scale.