[/QUOTE] I agree I don't build a new car each time. I don't disagree with what Bulldog suggests but since I don't have a track to test and tune it's just too many variables that I don't completely have a grasp on after 4 races. Making modest changes to the cars I have helps control those variables. I think my ultimate goal is the process that Bulldog outlines but I have a few specific goals I want to achieve first. To each his own of course.[/QUOTE]
+1 I agree. You'll see a ton of opinions on this site. I have read many times that the information is all here, this is true. I have read many times that what works for some wont work for all, this is also true. I believe the brain power of guys here far exceeds my capabilities alone. The ideas that I was presented by reading and re reading the info here opened up a chain of thoughts about why processes work. The value of the scientific method is priceless in this hobby. I have stood on the shoulders of the men who came up with things like rail running, canted rear wheels, k-house grooves, lightened wheels, oil process, tungsten, jig, monocoat, fenders, wheel weights, wax, delrin washers, and much more. I never knew about any of this before this site! I tried a lot of stuff I learned here and have learned it won't work for me, but as I have built and tested I have found what works for me. Can you do this with out a track, I believe you can. I know some of the hall of fame racers don't own one, but they have found ways to learn and grow from their mistakes. I find peace of mind that we all have access to the best pine wood derby parts in the world, this is a huge variable that we can avoid if we start with good parts we can know it's us and not the parts that need improvement. I have found the most fun and the most frustration looking of the ever elusive .01
