How to build a PUMPKIN RACER with two parallel independent axles

Here is a fun thing to do this Halloween, Pumpkin Racing. For our race, the use of a solid base with affixed wheels is illegal. No skateboards. No rollerskates. No Tonka trucks. The pumpkin itself must be the support of the pumpkin racer. The challenge is to build the fastest racing pumpkin with two independent axles.

And here is the secret to an undefeatable winner: For the pumpkin racer to go straight down the track, the axles have to be perfectly parallel.

For this Instructable I am using five inch soft rubber wheels with a 5/16 axle opening. These instructions are easily adapted to any size wheel.

Don't forget: Being creative is just as important as speed.

MATERIALS LIST:
(1) medium pumpkin
(2) eighteen inch long peices of 5/16 threaded rod
(4) five inch soft rubber wheels, plain bearing
(20) hex nuts 5/16
(8) flat washers 5/16
(4) fender washers 5/16
(4) acorn nuts 5/16
(2) wrenches 1/2 inch

PUMPKIN AXLE PUNCH - check out the Instructable on how to make this.

Step 1 PUNCHING AXLE HOLES

Place your pumpkin next to the Punch.  Hold the pumpkin firmly in place and punch the first axle hole by pushing the steel rod through the pumpkin.  Do the same for the second axle. 
I prefer to insert the end of one steel rod into a drill and drill the axle paths.  It is a whole lot less work.

TIP:  It is easier to decorate your pumpkin prior to putting the wheels on.  Just remember to keep the bottom part of the pumpkin free of any materials.  For example, if you do a mummy pumpkin, don't wrap gauze around the part where you will punch the axle holes. 

Comments

[The Papier Boy]

Let's see them in action. Have any pics of the race?