Functional 3D Printed Forklift
- Brian
- Jul 30
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 3
Hello tinkerers and DIY enthusiasts! Today, we're rolling up our sleeves and turning 3D printed parts into a functioning mini forklift. Stick around to learn what we do right (and wrong) during the build and learn some helpful tips on using hardware with your 3D prints.
To follow along, be sure to download and print the CyberBrick Official Forklift and its instructions.
Skills Exercised
3D printing
Assembly techniques
Tools & Supplies
Flush Cutters (or Scissors)
Super Glue
Small Phillips Screwdriver
H1.5 Hex Bit
Small Pliers
M2.5 Drill & Tap Set (optional)
7/32 Drill Bit (optional)
Project Summary
Join us in today's project where we transform 3D printed parts into a fully functional forklift using the CyberBrick kit from MakerWorld! Watch as we assemble the gearbox, chassis, wheels, electronics, and more step by step. We'll show you what we learned along the way and provide some helpful tips to keep your build going smoothly. We will follow this video up with the controller build to round out the project. Get ready to lift your spirits (and loads) with the CyberBrick 3D printed forklift.
Helpful Tips From This Video
Tip 1 - I used BambuLab AMS TPU (shore hardness of 68D) for the tank treads. It's probably a bit too stiff and makes the forklift drive a bit rough. My daughter ended up putting on the supplied rubber wheels to make it more controllable. There are other folks who have made alternative treads but I suspect a softer TPU would be tremendously helpful. Look for a TPU with shore hardness like 95A if you are looking for a better solution.
Tip 2 - Don't stress if a bolt doesn't appear to do anything. Often times, these kits use bolt + magnet to keep an access cover in place, so just install the bolt when the directions tell you to even if it isn't holding anything together.
Tip 3 - Super Glue is good at really making a mess. Be sure to protect your desk space with some newspaper or a magazine. I recommend letting the parts dry a while after using superglue. 30 minutes should be sufficient.
Tip 4 - The metal shafts didn't quite fit into the holes in the gearbox. I used an M2.5 drill to make it easier to install. Unfortunately I drilled all the way through the hole but luckily that didn't end up being an issue for this particular build.
Tip 5 - Be sure to lubricate the gearbox gears using the supplied grease. I've made the mistake of missing this step and ended up with a frozen motor.
Tip 6 - When plugging in the wheel motors, be sure to plug it into the spot on the receiver module on the opposite side of the vehicle (Left Motor - Right Plug, Right Motor - Left Plug)
Tip 7 - There are different types of servos in the CyberBrick kit. For the lift installation, make sure you select the 360 servo! (Trust me, the other one doesn't do what you want it to do.)
Final Thoughts
I was impressed with the detailed instructions and the masterfully crafted forklift. This project was a great introduction to what the marriage between 3D printer and hardware can produce. I've been using hardware in 3D prints for over 8 years and I even learned something new with this build (the magnet access cover was incredibly clever). Don't forget, the adventure isn't over. Next on the docket: a controller to bring this beauty to life.
If you enjoyed tinkering along with us, sign up for our newsletter and subscribe to my YouTube channel so I can keep you up to date on the latest projects. Have a great day and God bless!
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