Train bogie model 18-100, H0 scale, Mk3

This is a resin printer-oriented highly-detailed model of a train bogie series 18-100, widely used in USSR/Russian/CIS freight wagons. FDM-oriented version can be found here.

Update 2025.12.28: There are now 21.1mm and 24.5mm length coupler options. Before there was only 24.5mm mislabeled as 21mm.

This is the third iteration of my bogie model. The very first version was designed with FDM printers in mind, which meant it had to sacrifice some level of detail for printability. The second iteration targeted resin printers and therefore featured a much higher level of detailing.

The newest model takes this even further: it’s the most detailed version yet and now includes fully modeled brake levers and rods along with additional components of the braking system, giving it a far more realistic and accurate appearance.

Another major change is the redesigned attachment system. In earlier versions, the bogie had to be secured using an M2 screw, or alternatively a small self-tapping wood screw. However, since the screw hole is now obstructed by the newly added brake rods, the attachment method has been completely reworked.

The updated design uses a printed clipping axle. This axle can either be glued directly into the wagon’s base or simply held in place by friction, depending on the your preference. The bogie then snaps onto the axle, creating a clean, secure, and easy-to-assemble connection without the need for screws. Removing the bogie from the wagon is as simple as squeezing the axle clips and pushing it out.

The height from rail level to the top of bogie is 9.8mm when using 10.7mm wheelsets (36" prototypical), e.g. these from aliexpress. Sockets for wheelsets follow NEM 314 (Carriage Wheelset for Tip Bearings). This model does not contain wheelsets! I strongly advise using ready-made metal wheelsets for better rolling performance, but if you really want, you can 3D print the wheelsets too, the wheels can be found here, for example.

There are 3x2 variants of the model:

• with NEM 362 pocket for couplings

  • 21.1mm length, suitable for wagon like platform 13-401, tank 15-1443 and dumpcar 31-638

  • 24.5mm length, suitable for wagons like gondola 12-1592.

• without any coupling. This is a more realistic version for stand display or for wagons with american-style coupler mounts inside the wagons. 

Each variant comes with optional brace support to keep the geometry right after printing. I had a problem that resin wraps the ends of bogie outwards, so I added this brace. Now I always print with it.

I print the model angled by around 30deg with coupler pointing upwards (see pictures).