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Official Q&A: VEX IQ Robotics Competition 2025-2026: Mix & Match
3066: Does preload pin count toward robot's starting dimensions?
I haven't seen it yet this season, but would like a pre-emptive clarification - are robots expected to be inspected with or without a preload pin? If without, can a preload pin legally extend beyond the starting dimensions 11x20x15"? For example, part of the pin sticking above 15" or outside of the 11x20 dimensions?
The Preload does not have to fit within the starting volume required by clause A of <SG1>.
However, the Robot must be fully contained within that starting size limit even with the Preload in or on the Robot. For example, if the Robot is within size before the Preload is added, but the Robot becomes out of size when the Preload is added, this is a violation of <SG1> and must be corrected before the Match can begin.