Lego Train Compatible Gondola Car

23 Sept 2023 - Realized that the wrong wheel truck frame was originally uploaded. My apologies! This has been corrected in the files.

29 Aug 2023 - Uploaded parts for a redesigned wheel truck (bogey) that looks more realistic (not as depicted in the photos).

This is a simple gondola car that is compatible with the Lego train system. It has magnetic couplers on each end that allow the magnet inside to flip so that it always attracts the adjacent magnetic coupler.

M3 screws are used to attach the wheels to the wheel truck frame. They are also used to connect the wheel trucks (aka bogeys) to the car frame. You'll want to have a variety pack of M3 screws handy. Also, be sure the screws used for the couplers are not magnetic. XDOL Stainless Steel M3 screws from Amazon worked fine. I did not use stainless steel on the wheels/truck assembly to provide a more realistic look... those screws are magnetic.

No support material is required for this print.

Order of assembly:

1. Secure the wheels (4 per wheel truck) to two wheel truck frames using M3 screws. Tighten until the wheels do not turnout then back the screw out just enough until they turn freely.
2. Insert one magnet into the slot of each of the two couplers. They are designed for a 10x2mm size button magnet. I ordered mine from Amazon "DIYMAG 120 Pcs 10x2 Premium Brushed Nickel Small Round Cylinder..." You may need to use a tool to push the magnet through the slot. It's intentionally designed to be tight to prevent the magnet from working its way back out. You can widen the slot, post-print, of course.
3. Secure couplers to frame using M3 screws.
4. Secure the two wheel trucks to the car's frame
5. Align the hopper with the frame, using the thru-holes (counter bore) for the M3 screw heads that hold the wheel trucks to the frame. Secure the hopper to the frame using plastic cement or other adhesive that is compatible with whatever plastic you used for your print.

That's about it. Have fun. If you have any questions, feel free to drop me a message.

Also, I'm a new rail fan, so please be gentle on my poor use of terminology.

I plan to make more of these.