[Doug G]

This being my 12 year of FRC, I've noticed the competition change in little ways here and there, but the withholding allowance has been one of the most major changes in FRC these past 5 years. The days of crating your robot by Monday night, so that FedEx could pick it up at some point Tuesday morning - are gone. (I almost miss those days) Now we can (and many teams do) build 3/4 of a robot in 6 weeks and then spend another 3-4 weeks building/perfecting the other 1/4 (often some very important component).

So as others have already mentioned, use the 30 lb withholding to your advantage and I'll be at the door checking your weight (at least in spirit).

PS: Everyone else - if you bring your bumpers into the competition unbagged, it counts towards your witholding allowance!!

Other blunders to watch out for....
1) Loose chain may work for a little while, but it will fall off at the worst possible time. Find ways to properly align and tension chain.
2) Loose electrical connections may work for a little while, but will work loose at the worst possible time. Find ways to secure, crimp, and attach wiring.
3) Fasteners like screws, bolts, and nuts MUST be locked down using locknuts, threadlock, lock washers, etc. This year with many fast spinning wheels to shoot balls, things will tend to work themselves loose!