How can we make a soap box derby car turn??

Question

Me and my friend have recently made a normal wood soap box car. Unfortunatly we are stuck on finding something or making something to aid us in turning. We have no clue nor can we find help on how to make it turn. If you have any ideas please leave them here. Thanks.

Answer 1

Funny you should ask, our Boy Scout Troop is having a soap box derby this Thursday!

In order to turn, you'll need some way of pivoting the wheels.  The easiest and cheapest way is probably using long screws with a bolt on the other end, and at least one washer between the two pieces (the car and the front wheels--think of a hammerhead shark's head with the wheels on the end and the car connected in the middle).  Steering is then usually done with a rope:  pull on one side to turn that way, etc.

Don't forget to arrange some sort of brake!!  (I've seen rubber from an old car tire put on the end of a sturdy piece of wood that can be used as a brake.)

Best wishes!