Question about DIY Mini Propeller Car activity

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kimber53171
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Joined: Tue Apr 07, 2026 11:50 am
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Question about DIY Mini Propeller Car activity

Post by kimber53171 »

My GT Students are making the Propeller Car. However, when completing the project the car does not move at all. This has happened multiple times. We've used the same supplies that were in the demonstration video and followed all directions. The motors work and the propellers spin, so the connection is not the issue. It just doesn't move the car.





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The activity can be viewed at: DIY Mini Propeller Car
bfinio
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Re: Question about DIY Mini Propeller Car activity

Post by bfinio »

Hi - I would recommend just pushing the cars to make sure that they roll easily on their own. If there is too much friction with the wheels then the fans will not be powerful enough to push them.

Also, make sure you feel air blowing backward if you put your hand behind the car, to make sure the propellers are not spinning backwards.

Thanks,

Ben Finio, PhD
Lead Staff Scientist
Science Buddies
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