(update june -19) 1/16 HL tiger 1 3818 internal supports, final drive bearing supports and some spare parts

thingiverse

A package of custom-made parts designed to enhance my Heng Long Tiger 1 model tank's performance and stability. After installing metal tracks and driving wheels, I noticed excessive flex in the gearboxes, causing the tracks to de-track themselves despite adjustments to tension and alignment. By adding these supports to the gearbox and axle outputs, my tracks now stay rigidly in place, and the tank feels more responsive as less power is wasted on body flex. Internal Bracing for Gearboxes and Axles (Tiger3.stl) These lightweight bracing components snap onto the front and rear of the gearbox, stabilizing the gearbox shell and tank body. I secured mine to the hull using small screws. May 2019 Update: A revised central bracket has been designed to accommodate cable management in newer versions, allowing for easier installation. Axle Supports For later models with outer rings under the faux gearbox covers at axle outputs, these supports can be attached directly there. They hold 12 x 8 x 3.5 mm ball bearings and keep the axles closer to the center of the drive wheels, preventing axle snapping. I used small screws to secure mine, but glue could also work. These may fit older tanks, but their chassis wouldn't support them due to a lack of molded plastic rings. Compensate for material shrinkage when printing this part to ensure easy bearing installation. The dimensions are true to size. May 2019 Update: A reinforced design has been added to prevent breakage under high strain on the drivetrain. Final Drive To go all the way, I've created two complete final drive housings for bearings – one with a screw hole and one without. Modeled after blueprints and historic photos, these parts are accurate enough at this scale. You can fit bearings up to 6mm thickness in this version, but be aware that the groove on the bottom is raised 0.25mm, requiring build plate support to avoid print deviations. Spare Gun Mantlet Cover (Tiger2.stl) This simple replacement part covers a broken cannon assembly mantlet cover, cheaper than purchasing a new assembly. Use glue liberally for secure attachment. Extended Battery Well (Tiger.stl) Remove the front wall in your tank's battery well and attach this extended battery well to create more space for batteries and better cable management. Print these parts with settings suitable for your 3D printer, such as PLA and a 0.8 nozzle with 30% infill and double outer walls. May 2019 Update: For the axle supports, consider using triple outer walls and 60% infill for added strength.