There is a 12-yr that races in the NPWDRL (he watches every race online with the rest of us), and at one time, I thought a second kid was getting involved. Its not just for Adults with OCD. I do help him a bit with some of my old parts, but if you truly enjoy building these little cars, it's a great hobby. He understands he may never get out of the Am BASX class, but its the building and racing that drives him. Don't let age stop you (or your son); nor do you have to be in every race. Do it because its an enjoyable hobby.
That is good information and a great attitude. I showed my son that I signed up here and he immediately wanted to sign up as TBR Jr. He is 10 and likes Lego Robotics, Scouting, camping, fishing and is REALLY starting to take an interest in this. I try to teach him something whenever possible. He is starting to get a good grasp on the different forces that effect a derby car. It was rewarding to see him share with the other Scouts what he has learned at the Pack tune day that we held.
Time is always a concern as life is busy, but I would not mind him doing this as it has a great opportunity to help teach and reinforce some life lessons. Cost is also a factor as we need to balance planning for the future and living life today.
My son brought me a drawing of a car he wants to build (his first drawing completely by himself). It is a simple wedge design with some weight pockets and a couple of areas drawn for weight reduction underneath. He also drew the idea on a spare block of wood that we had. He did this while I was at work and it is my understanding that he spent a couple hours on it. I told him we would build it. He has been building this completely on his own with assistance only as safety is needed. It would be nice if we could get him some better axles and wheels for it , but he is just excited to be working on HIS first car on His own.
Because of cost concerns, we are weighting this car with lead. Also because of his drawing design (not wanting to modify it anymore than we have to from his drawing) has forced me to get creative with how to weight it. We actually mocked up the main body with weight pockets and wheels. The COG was just under 3/4" with 1.8 ounces behind the rear axle and a 5" W/B. This is before we cut any weight reduction pockets. The overall height at the back of the car is 5/8".
I know that while this car is not what most here would consider anywhere near ideal, I believe that for a 10 year old it is a good start and it is what we can afford. I am proud of him for wanting to do this car on his own!
Thanks to you and all the others here that have such a positive attitude.
P.S. We are having fun together!
