New for 2025 - US M3 Halftrack

[RC_BobM]

I started experiment with the tracks for M3 halftrack. I wonder could I use link type track instead of rubber band type track? I think I have solution. Now to make the rest (the other 99.98%)!

First concept with square end connector. this would work if end connector blocks are metal (Alum).

Second concept with link-link connection, 2mm pin.

Printing the links in Galaxy black Prusa PLA result in links that look like rubber! Also difficult to see the seam between links. Should be good.

Sprocket CAD

My sprocket 12-2024.JPG (34.06 KiB) Viewed 993 times

Track Concept, version 1

Track V1 concept.JPG (27.1 KiB) Viewed 993 times

Track version 2

Track V2 concept.JPG (34.92 KiB) Viewed 993 times

Track version 2 - bottom side

Track V2 concept -bottom side.JPG (24.54 KiB) Viewed 993 times

Sprocket - Army green PLA

Sprocket - Army green PLA 2.jpg (142.29 KiB) Viewed 993 times

Sprocket prototype

With version 1 track

with version 2 track (photo1)

Version 2 track (photo2)

Version 2 track (photo4)

Version 2 track (photo3)

I plan to use two track motors, and perhaps another motor to drive front axle (3 motor).

More to hopefully follow.
B

[cahlfors]

Awesome!
People here have good experience with PLA track, so that should work. Personally, I would be hard pressed not to try sneaking in at least some TPE pads...
//

[RC_BobM]

hi Christopher
Yes may be possible to add TPU pad to the design. I don't know if one needs it however. The vehicle weight and links with cleats should give plenty of grip. I would like to power front axle so should have plenty of power. Yes PLA is pretty amazing material, I find it very strong and tough too, and if painted (protected from UV and water) will last a long time.
Best regards.
Bob

[mrTyko]

Impressive Most Impressive.
As a well-known character has said.

Robert

[RC_BobM]

A little more progress, waterjet cut Aluminum chain rings. I am mostly happy with track design. The 2mm steel/brass/stainless steel track pins are glued in with rubber cement, so they can be removed. Time will tell how that works.

Sprocket with Alum chain ring

Tracks overall

[cahlfors]

"Rubber cement" as in the stuff you glued photos in the albums in the old millennium?
Having things removable is always a good idea! Looks very good, indeed!

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[mrTyko]

Impressive

[RC_BobM]

A little more progress on HT. Made the front wheels - the first one from PLA+ and painted.

CAD of front wheels

M3 front tire and rim

Printed tires in PLA +

Printed wheels

Rear track gearbox complete except for painting.

track gearbox

gearbox2

Sprocket hub

Completed track both sides

trACK

[cahlfors]

Looking great!
I think you will be happy with the linked tracks (as opposed to rubber loops).
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[RC_BobM]

Thank you Christopher - yes I like them, much easier to make than rubber loops! Sometimes design compromise has to be done.
Best regards,
Bob