I'll say the definition of "retail" has evolved since that glossary was written. Kits and such weren't really a thing much for racing back then so it wasn't on the mind. But I think the key in that glossary entry is "from a purchased car," which suggests using axle kits does not qualify. But it's meant to be adjusted to suit people's needs.
I will say my original intent with that point was to try and keep things easy & fair by limiting folks to what they could buy at the store for cheap. It was an attempt to curb engineering projects that were using bearings, custom made axles, custom wheels, etc. There's a point where it is no longer a Hot Wheels car and just a tiny pinewood derby car, which to me, was not the spirit of what's fun and entertaining about it at all.
Races got to a point where there were extremes for entries; total pros with science projects vs total noobs with nothing but additional weight. It was very lopsided and people expressed concern with it.
But obviously since then, we've seen all sorts of ways people play within in the rules. Plus, we all also know that enforcement is near-impossible so it really does boil down to how each host cares to qualify their rules and policing...and that's fine. Your house, your rules.
Bottomline, if you're looking to have your races follow a certain standard or feeling...be very specific in your rules. This hobby is a "if it doesn't say I can't then I can" attitude and you just need to account for that. Don't assume people we follow your *intent* unless it's outlined.
I'll say the definition of "retail" has evolved since that glossary was written. Kits and such weren't really a thing much for racing back then so it wasn't on the mind. But I think the key in that glossary entry is "from a purchased car," which suggests using axle kits does not qualify. But it's meant to be adjusted to suit people's needs.
I will say my original intent with that point was to try and keep things easy & fair by limiting folks to what they could buy at the store for cheap. It was an attempt to curb engineering projects that were using bearings, custom made axles, custom wheels, etc. There's a point where it is no longer a Hot Wheels car and just a tiny pinewood derby car, which to me, was not the spirit of what's fun and entertaining about it at all.
Races got to a point where there were extremes for entries; total pros with science projects vs total noobs with nothing but additional weight. It was very lopsided and people expressed concern with it.
But obviously since then, we've seen all sorts of ways people play within in the rules. Plus, we all also know that enforcement is near-impossible so it really does boil down to how each host cares to qualify their rules and policing...and that's fine. Your house, your rules.
Bottomline, if you're looking to have your races follow a certain standard or feeling...be very specific in your rules. This hobby is a "if it doesn't say I can't then I can" attitude and you just need to account for that. Don't assume people we follow your *intent* unless it's outlined.