VW Combi van - Spring-powered Car - Mini Bus

Greetings everyone, I invite you to print this miniature Volkswagen bus; it features a spring mechanism and is 100% 3D printed (excluding adhesive and lubricant for assembly). Meticulous adherence to the assembly instructions is crucial for a functional result. Do not overlook any steps.

Numerous options are available!!! All these parts are interchangeable, allowing you to create your desired model:

• Three distinct roofs (standard, sunroof in a separate profile, and roof rack with surfboard in a separate profile)
• Two types of side body panels (standard and racing with widened fenders in the dragster profile)
• Two transmissions (standard and short in the dragster profile)
• Two springs (a soft and a strong spring in the dragster profile)
• Two sets of rims and tires (standard and wide in the dragster profile)
• Two types of bumpers (standard and racing in the dragster profile)
• Three drive types (four-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, or rear-wheel drive)

I drew inspiration from the iconic Volkswagen Type 1 Combi bus of the 1950s to 1967 (or Split Screen) to incorporate a wind-up spring mechanism. This mechanism drives all four wheels (Yes, a four-wheel-drive Combi!!!). The model is quite compact, measuring approximately 160mm long, 60mm high, and 60mm wide. I gave it a lowered look with large rims. Printing is relatively straightforward, although multicolor printing is time-consuming (but truly worthwhile…). Assembly is also simple, yet adhering to the assembly instructions is imperative. Robust Design: Wall thicknesses, clearances, axle diameters, and the print orientation result in a sturdy and durable toy, even when using PLA. It will withstand numerous stunts!

I adjusted the gear ratios so the front wheels rotate slightly faster than the rear wheels (this helps the vehicle drive straight). I created the tires and bumpers using TPU for AMS, but you can also print them in PLA. IMPORTANT POINTS: with PLA tires, your Combi will drift and remain stationary – The soft spring can be used with TPU tires for AMS - The strong spring, combined with the short transmission, absolutely requires tires made with 60/70A TPU or bicycle inner tubes (otherwise, your vehicle will spin in place even in 4X4).

A QUICK ASSEMBLY TIP: If you cannot print 60/70A TPU or create tires using bicycle inner tubes, opt for assembly with the long transmission, the soft spring, and four-wheel drive. (This setup already offers excellent performance).

New A print profile is now available for both sides without the AD-Concept markings

I hope you enjoy assembling and operating this little spring-powered vehicle. Please feel free to share photos of your creations in the comments.