DIY Fully 3D-Printed Tank

🛠️ DIY 3D-Printed Tank with Chain Drive System 🚜🔥

Build Your Own Arduino-Powered Mini Tank with Realistic Tracks and Custom Controls!

Have you ever wanted to build your own remote-controlled tank from scratch? Now you can! This rugged 3D-printed battle tank is powered by four BO motors, features a realistic chain drive system, and is controlled via a custom-built transmitter (yes, the same one I made earlier!). Whether you’re a robotics enthusiast or just want an epic weekend project — this is for you.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step build, and if you need any help — or the STL files, code, or circuit diagram — just drop me a message! 💬

🔧 What You'll Need

🔹 3D-Printed Parts:

• 🏗️ Main Body
• 🔗 Tank Chains (x60 links – 30 per side
• ⚙️ Wheels (x4)
• 🛡️ Wing 1 (Left) – split into Upper and Lower
• 🛡️ Wing 2 (Right) – split into Upper and Lower

🔸 Electronics:

• 🤖 Arduino UNO
• 🔌 H-Bridge Motor Driver (L298N or L293D)
• ⚡ Battery Holder + Batteries
• 🔋 Jumper Wires
• 🚗 BO Motors (x4)

🛠️ Step-by-Step Build Guide

🔧 Step 1: Install Motors in the Wing Sections

• Start with Wing 1 (Left):-
• It's divided into Upper and Lower halves.
• Insert 2 BO motors into the Lower Wing section.
• Secure them with screws or glue. Make sure the shafts align perfectly.
• Route the motor wires through the pre-designed holes and label them (e.g., L1, L2).
• Mount wheels onto the motor shafts with a gentle push-and-twist.
• Snap the Upper Wing onto the lower part to lock everything in place. 🔒

.🧷 Step 2: Connect Wings to the Main Body

• Gently slide both wings into the central body.
• The built-in locking system ensures a snug and secure fit. 🧲
• Feed all motor wires into the main body for wiring.

🔗 Step 3: Attach the Chain Drive System

Now for the coolest part — the functional tank chains! 🦾

• Use 30 chain links per side.
• Interconnect links using small PLA filament pins or 1.75mm rods.
• Once assembled, wrap the chains around the mounted wheels of each wing.

⚡ Step 4: Wiring It Up

• Time to breathe life into the tank!
• Place the H-Bridge driver inside the body.
• Connect each motor to the driver (2 per side).
• Mount your Arduino UNO and wire the motor driver’s inputs to digital pins.
• Connect the battery holder to the motor driver’s power terminals.

Connection:-

🎮 Step 5: Add Wireless Control (Optional)

If you’ve built a custom transmitter like I did, now’s the time to pair it! Use an RF module, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi (ESP8266) to enable wireless movement.

💻 Step 6: Upload the Code

Flash the Arduino with your control code. You can find my complete starter sketch and circuit diagram here: 📦 GitHub: Tank Chain Project

Once uploaded, run a test! You’ll see powerful movement with realistic chain dynamics.

📬 Need Help or the STL Files?

If you're planning to build a similar tank or want STL files, code, or circuit diagram, just drop me a message! 💬✅ DM me or email — I'm always ready to help fellow makers. Or you guys can order it from “JUSTWAY”.

🤝 Sponsored by JUSTWAY – Build More, Save More!

This DIY tank project is proudly brought to you in partnership with JUSTWAY, your reliable source for custom 3D printing and CNC machining services.

🛠️ Whether you're prototyping parts like the tank chains, wheels, or custom enclosures — JUSTWAY makes it easy with fast turnaround and high-quality prints.

And right now, during their Summer Cashback Event, you can get 15% cashback on your orders placed between June 1 and August 31, 2025!

👉 After your order is completed, simply email marketing03@justway.com with your order number and account info to claim your cashback.

Perfect time to stock up on parts for your next robotics or maker project!

🎁 Bonus: 👉 Get 15% Off Here

🧰 Happy building — and happy saving!

🔥 Why This Tank is Awesome

• 🦾 Realistic chain drive like military-grade vehicles
• ⚙️ 4 BO motors for torque and balance
• 🧲 Modular wings make assembly & maintenance a breeze
• 🎮 Custom transmitter for wireless control
• 🔋 Battery-powered and portable
• 👨‍🔧 Perfect for learning Arduino, 3D printing, and robotics

🚀 Upgrade Ideas

Take your mini tank to the next level with these optional mods:

• 📹 Add an ESP32-CAM for live FPV video
• 💡 Install LED headlights for night missions
• 🧠 Use ultrasonic sensors for obstacle avoidance
• 🌐 Add Wi-Fi control via ESP8266 and phone browser
• 🔊 Mount a speaker for sound effects
• 🎨 Paint it camo green or add decals for military vibes

🎯 Use Cases

This tank is perfect for:

• 🤖 STEM or robotics exhibitions
• 🎓 School/college tech festivals
• 🧪 Testing sensors or motor driver projects
• 📸 Fun stop-motion videos or robot wars
• 🧒 Teaching electronics and mechanical basics