Tip #1Increase the Pulling Force Move the mousetrap closer to the drive axle. Make sure that the trap is

not too close to the drive axle or the wheels will spring. Try several trap placements until you find the right one. Understand that the ultimate goal is for the car to travel 5 meters (16.1 ft.). Once you have

accomplished that, then you can start tweaking it to go faster.

                                                                                                     

Notice the trap close to the rear axel! If you car already goes the distance easy, then try moving it closer to the rear axel for more speed.

Notice the trap far from the rear axel! This trap placement will give the car more distance.

Tip #2Decrease Axle-to-Wheel Ratio1. Decrease the axle to wheel ratio by adding tape to the drive axle or using smaller drive wheels. 2. Use a larger drive axle. The smaller the ratio of drive wheel(s)-to-axles diameter, the greater the acceleration that you will experience. Careful, if the ratio is too small your vehicle will spin its wheels rather than accelerate                                                                                    

Tip #3String & Extension Bar Length1. The string length should be a bit shorter than the distance from the lever arm to the drive axle. This will allow the loop to release from the hook, preventing the string from rewinding.