Cyberbrick RC Wheel Loader

RC wheel loader

Inspiration and Scale

I wanted to build a functional scale model of a large vehicle. Something with plenty of features, yet still feasible to construct using Cyberbrick components. After considering different options, I chose to recreate a wheel loader, a machine that’s both iconic and mechanically interesting in my opinion.

While there are many types of wheel loaders, I based my model on a version primarily used for moving rocks; The Volvo L350F. I designed it at 1:25 scale, which provided enough room to include functional details while keeping it compact and buildable.

Functional ‘Hydraulic’ Cylinders

One of the most challenging parts of the design was creating realistic cylinders. Instead of using real hydraulics, I designed a mechanism driven by threaded N20 motors (available from Maker’s Supply). Each motor uses an M3 nut mounted on its rotating shaft, which pushes or pulls a rod as it turns. This mechanism simulates hydraulic movement surprisingly well, giving the bucket smooth, controlled, and realistic motion.

Realistic articulated steering

One of the most iconic aspects of a wheel loader is its articulated steering, where the machine bends at its center hinge instead of turning the front wheels. While my mechanism isn’t identical to the real Volvo’s, it performs the same function and gives the loader its characteristic movement.

Front and rear differentials

Because articulated steering changes the angles of the front and rear sections, differentials are essential, even at this small scale. The inclusion of both front and rear differentials allows for smooth turns and gives the loader a surprisingly tight turning radius, which is especially useful when maneuvering in small spaces.

Printing

Some parts require a bit of niche support, but most can be printed without any, and the supports that are needed are easy to remove. Make sure you have sufficient bed adhesion, as some parts are quite tall. If you experience adhesion issues, please refer to the Bambulab Wiki.

Assembling

I’ve included an assembly guide that also contains a list of all non-printable components and a hardware connection diagram.

This model does have quite a few parts, so assembly won’t be the quickest, but the process itself is straightforward.

If you come across any mistakes or unclear points in the guide, please let me know. And if you have any questions, feel free to reach out

Required components

Please note: if you already have the Cyberbrick Beginner’s Kit, you only need to purchase the additional parts listed in the bill of materials below. If you own the Ultimate Kit, you won’t need to buy extra batteries, the multifunction core, receiver shield, or power switch module.

Controller

The front wheel loader uses the official Cyberbrick remote, you can find the files here.

Updates

Optional LED Lights
The user @TheKitter has made awesome models that add the feature of mounting LED lights. You can find the STL files in the folder ‘optional LED lights’. 

Thank you @TheKitter for making these!

20-11-2025.

Troubleshooting & FAQ

Stuck Cylinder…

If a cylinder gets stuck at the top position, try turning the rod clockwise manually. If it is stuck at the bottom, turn the rod counterclockwise.

The lifting doesn't go smooth…

For smooth lifting, both of the longer lifting cylinders must remain the same length at all times. Check to ensure they are properly aligned and equal in length.