Local Motors Strati 3D printed car - modified for rolling wheels and detail

thingiverse

I really enjoy the model of the Local Motors Strati 3D printed car that is posted on Thingiverse, but I wanted to make it simultaneously more similar to the real car, and with rolling wheels. Working off the original files, I started from individual files and scaled them down to 1/20 scale. For some reason 1/10 was way too big for my printer. The original separate body file is finer and more detailed, so this gives improved quality. Next, I cut out holes in the body so that an axle can pass through easily. Then I rebuilt the suspension pivots and struts to be more robust and to allow room for a rotating wheel. Additionally, the windshield was broken out as a separate part, allowing you to make it in clear plastic if available. Lastly, I modeled from scratch a wheel that looks more like the real one that was shown, featuring a separate tire so you can print it in flexible filament/elastomer/another color if you desire. Here's how to assemble this car: First, print two each of the suspension pivots (L and R versions). The axle hole is offset towards the rear of the car. Next, print four suspension struts. After that, print one each of the roll bar, battery, motor, steering wheel, and windshield. Now it's time to assemble: Print the body, followed by four wheels using support. Then print four tires. For the axles, you will need a 3mm or so steel rod, which you should cut into two 81mm lengths. Assemble the car by gluing a strut into the top of the wheel arch and attaching it to a suspension pivot with glue holding one end in place and dropping another into the top of the arm for each wheel. After that, fit the tires onto the wheels. Glue the battery box and motor in place and ensure proper alignment. Thread an axle through the motor housing. Glue the wheels to the axles. Finally, attach the steering wheel, roll bar, windshield, and add color with a silver marker if you like.