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Stage 1: Differential Drama

A project log for 3D Printed RC car (1-5 scale)

Can You 3D Print an Entire RC Car? I Tried — And It Blew Up (Literally)

eugene-tkachenkoEugene Tkachenko 06/28/2025 at 00:430 Comments

I began with a planetary-style differential designed in Fusion 360. But when I tested the first PLA prototype, it melted almost immediately. After just ten seconds of operation, the pinion gear stalled, the case warped, and the shaft fused to the plastic. PLA failed; so did PETG. Heat + friction = melted mess. 

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