Trying to add real weight without chewing up a ton of space under your Pinewood Derby car?
A Turbo Derby Tungsten Bar packs a lot of weight into a small area, so you can tune your build without the underside looking like a messy stack of chunks. This 2.56oz (72.7g) bar is a solid option for racers building their first fast car and for experienced racers who want more control over placement.
Tungsten Bars for Smart Weight Placement
One of the biggest benefits of tungsten is flexibility: because it’s so dense, these bars let you place weight where it fits best for your design. Start by checking your rules and target weight, then weigh often as you go. A lot of builders push weight rearward for potential speed gains, but you still want the car to track steadily, especially on rough tracks.
Keep things even side-to-side, and lock the bar down so it can't creep or rattle loose on race day. And if you're chasing that last little bit of weight, finding tungsten bars for sale with smaller pieces can help you land on the number without going over.
Why Shop with Turbo Derby?
Turbo Derby sells premium components for Pinewood Derby cars, and it shows in the details. Our tools and parts show up at serious pro racers' shops, but the whole experience is still friendly for parents and first-time builders.
Beyond tungsten for Pinewood Derby, expect high-quality parts and clever tools you won't see at every shop. You also get support from people who actually know the hobby (not just a canned reply). Prices stay reasonable with orders over $75 shipping free. Bottom line: it's about building with confidence, having fun, and showing up on race day ready.
FAQs
Why do people use tungsten weights in Pinewood Derby?
In short, these weights are compact and can help you reach the maximum weight without crowding the underside of your car.
Because tungsten is so dense, you can pack more weight into a smaller spot, making balancing and tuning much simpler.
Where should tungsten bars go on the car?
For maximum speed, you want the weight concentrated toward the rear of the car.
- Confirm rules and your target weight
- Adjust the car's weights, both forward and backward, and side to side, to achieve your ideal weight placement.
Is tungsten allowed in Cub Scout Pinewood Derby?
Yes, but always check your rules when using tungsten bars.
What’s the best way to attach a tungsten weight to a Pinewood Derby car?
You want the weight securely affixed to the car. Here are a couple of options:
- Double-sided tape allows for easy adjustments and for reusing the weight in future cars.
- Glue (epoxy, super glue, wood glue, craft glue, hot glue, etc.) makes for an easy, more permanent bond.
If rules allow, cover the weight before race day.

















