General Build Preparation

□ Review the robot design and CAD (if available)

□ Read and understand game manual rules (size limits, expansion, etc.)

□ Check that all needed parts are available

□ Gather all necessary tools (Allen keys, wrenches, etc.)

□ Work on a clean, organized build surface

Drive Base / Chassis

□ Frame is square, symmetrical, and sturdy

□ Motors are securely mounted and wired cleanly

□ Wheels spin freely and evenly

□ Gears or chains are tensioned properly

□ Spacers and bearings are in correct places

□ Axles are not bent and spin smoothly

□ Robot fits inside size box (18"x18"x18")

Mechanisms (Intake, Arm, Shooter, etc.)

□ Mechanism is mounted securely to the robot

□ Moving parts (gears, arms, flywheels) rotate freely without rubbing

□ Rubber bands or springs are applied correctly and safely

□ Linkages, arms, and supports are reinforced (no weak joints)

□ No unnecessary friction or misalignment

Fasteners and Stability

□ All screws and nuts are tightened properly (not loose, not stripped)

□ Use Nylock nuts where needed

□ Use locking collars to secure axles

□ Check for metal-on-metal contact that may cause binding

□ Add standoffs or braces to support large structures

Electronics Setup

□ Motors are plugged into correct ports on the brain

□ Battery is securely mounted and easily accessible

□ Cables are neatly routed (zip-tied and out of the way of moving parts)

□ Sensors are properly mounted and functional (limit switch, distance, gyro, etc.)

□ Brain screen is visible and easily reachable

Testing & Debugging

□ Run basic movement test (forward/backward/turn)

□ Test each mechanism individually

□ Watch for slipping gears, misaligned parts, or loose connections

□ Check for excessive shaking, bouncing, or flex

□ Adjust or rebuild anything that fails under stress

Final Checks

□ Robot fits in sizing tool from all angles

□ Nothing sharp or unsafe on the robot

□ Robot passes pre-competition inspection checklist

□ Changes have been documented in the Engineering Notebook

Maintenance Tips

□ Re-tighten screws after every competition or long practice

□ Keep a toolbox with spare parts (screws, axles, motors, gears)

□ Regularly clean robot (dust, metal shavings, grease)

□ Check for wear on wheels, gears, and shafts