Toy Train with Independent Wheelbases Fits Brio and Other Tracks

thingiverse

Working on high-quality printable train requires some non-3D printed parts to make it complete. This train is designed to fit seamlessly with Brio and other wooden train tracks. I'm currently testing the beta version, hoping to generate interest so I can gather help in case anybody wants to contribute. My ultimate goal is to design a precise replica of the Polar Express. UPDATE: October 4, 2014 Just got back from a local hobby shop and found 1/8" brass tubing that measures exactly 3.125mm, just shy of my planned 3mm diameter. However, I designed the openings at 3.5mm, so it should fit without any issues. Unfortunately, when printing the parts using my Da Vinci printer, the openings were too tiny to accommodate the tubes. It might be an error in my design or possibly a problem with the Da Vinci software. I'm going to increase the hole sizes in the STL files to see if that resolves the issue and get them uploaded. UPDATE: October 5, 2014 I successfully increased the hole sizes of the STL files to match the larger brass tubing, and they're now ready for printing. Now, here are the instructions: 1. First, print all the necessary parts: one Body unit and two Wheelbase units. 2. Next, acquire the non-printed components: * 1/8" metal tube * Two 1/2" ring magnets * Ten round head nails * Two smaller nails (not sure about these yet) or small washers (yet to confirm) 3. Carefully insert the metal tubes into the base units, paying attention to their depth - each hole should be approximately 6mm deep. 4. Secure the magnets within the wheelbase using round head nails - simply nail them in through the holes you designed. 5. Assemble the axles by threading plastic wheels onto the tubes sticking out of the body unit. 6. Connect the wheelbases to the body by aligning them over the protruding metal tubes and securing them with one or more nails.