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How to Make a Homemade Rubber Band Racer

A rubber band racer is a toy vehicle typically made out of household items. The only power source for the vehicle are rubber bands. Rubber band racer kits can also be found at various websites and at specialty children's stores, which contain all the necessary parts to make the racer.

Things You'll Need

Rubber band that is a bit longer than the spool's height Large spool (at least 1 1/4 inches in diameter) Drinking straw, pencil or pen Small paper clip that is shorter than the spool's diameter Masking tape Metal washer 1 inch or less in diameter

Instructions

- 1
  Put the rubber band through the hole in the center of the spool, using the straw, pencil or pencil to push it if it gets stuck. The ends of the rubber band should be sticking out a little from each end of the spool.
- 2
  Slide the paper clip through one of the loops that is sticking out of the spool. Tape the paper clip and elastic flat against the end of the spool using your masking tape.
- 3
  Put the washer over the loop formed by the elastic at the other end of the spool, pulling the band through the hole in the washer. Slide the straw, pencil or pen through the elastic loop now poking out of the washer.
- 4
  The rubber band might be a bit loose at this point. Use the straw, pencil or pen to wind the elastic around about 20 times or so to tighten things up.
- 5
  Put your racer down on the floor or tabletop and watch it go. Make adjustments as you see fit to make your racer move the way you want it to.

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