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First steps, test run

A project log for Broke Hackers' Model Railway

Cheap, fully automated model train system with 99.9999% 3D printed parts.

szabolcs-lrinczSzabolcs Lőrincz 07/21/2015 at 19:430 Comments

It is finally time to assemble the whole creation. The parts are printed, so let's put them together! For now, I didn't use the electronics stuff, I just simply wired an AA cell to the motor to keep things easy.


The whole engine is switched by a jumper. The axises of the train are made out of welding rods. The drivetrain consists of a really small 3D printed gear and a basic chipboard screw. The screw is secured to the motor shaft by shrink tubes, which were also used as tires on the driven wheels for better grip. I also added a lage nut in the back of the train for more weight. The gear is so small that I needed a 0.2mm extruder nozzle to print, but it was totally worth it (especially because it only cost 2$ off ebay). I will post some instructions when I build the next loco. Here's how the drive looks like:

For the first test run, I assembled a simple loop, and let my train run in circles again and again. It was so awesome! Look at it yourself:

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