Branch Wheels for a High-Speed RC Monster

In my previous Instructable, I showed you how I built an RC chassis with huge, terrifying spikes for racing across frozen lakes. If you haven't seen it, be sure to check out my profile. Anyway, it's summer now, which means it's time for summer wheels. My first crazy idea? Make wheels out of branches. And that's exactly what today's story is about...

1. Plywood
2. Sewer pipe
3. Branches

My trusty hand jigsaw. There's something really satisfying about being able to cut complex shapes out of plywood or plastic with my own two hands, without any power tools or 3D printers. I almost feel proud of it, honestly. I love making interesting, intricate forms using simple hand tools.

So, I cut the wheel rims out of 12 mm plywood, sanded them down, and coated them with varnish for durability.

Next, I take a 110 mm diameter PVC sewer pipe and cut it into 120 mm long sections. These will serve as the wheel rims.

I attach the rims to the wheels using 3 mm screws, driven into pre-tapped threads in the plywood.

Now for the most interesting part — the tire tread. I went to the forest and gathered some fallen branches. It took quite a bit of work to cut all those pieces. On top of that, I made saw cuts in each piece. I did a few wheels with cuts, but later I figured I'd drill holes instead. What are they for? Keep reading to find out.

I decided to attach the branches to the pipe using strong nylon thread. I spent a long time winding and tying. I secured the end of the thread with a knot and a drop of super glue. And then I ran into a problem — the branches were sliding back and forth along the wheel's axis by about 10 mm. I needed to do something about that...

Here's how I solved the problem. I drilled all the way through each branch together with the pipe. Then I inserted a small nail from the pipe side with a drop of glue and pressed it against the pipe. This way, the nails stayed glued to the pipe but didn't stick to the branches. The thread kept the branches pressed against the pipe, while the nails kept them in position. Now, after a few test runs, I can say it worked.

As you may remember, the axles on my monster have short M3 studs at both ends. When you slide the wheels onto the axles, these studs fit into the slots in the plywood, preventing the wheels from spinning. Then I add a few washers and secure the wheel with a nail or a piece of wire.

A video is worth a thousand words, so better see it once than read my rambling here.

The effect was absolutely impressive. And that clicking sound of the branches on the road — just like the hoofbeats of a galloping herd of horses...

The kids were thrilled. Every passerby in the park stopped and couldn't figure out what kind of wonder was zooming past.

I haven't measured the speed yet, but it handles like a beast!

Well then, thanks to everyone who made it to the end — you've got some serious patience!

Next time, I'll keep experimenting with wheels, and I've already got a surprise in store.

I'd love to see you again! See you!