Tamiya Blackfoot – Reinforced Front Steering Knuckles

The original part is quite slim in several areas and, after many years of use, can become a weak point. I recreated the part based on the original geometry in Onshape and optimized (I hope) the areas that are prone to breaking.

Design

The mounting-hole geometry and the important interface dimensions remain identical to the original part, so this is intended as a direct replacement rather than a suspension geometry modification.

However, several areas have been deliberately reinforced (and optimized for printing):

• Increased material thickness around the critical mounting points

• Enlarged and strengthened load-bearing areas

• Additional reinforcing ribs

• Reinforced transitions between the different sections of the part

• Improved material distribution around the axle and suspension mounting areas

• Rounded/strengthened areas where possible to reduce stress concentrations

The goal was simple: keep the original geometry where it matters, but make the part considerably more robust and better to print.

There is enough space around the front steering assembly of the Blackfoot to allow these reinforcements without interfering with the surrounding components.

3D Printing

The part was specifically designed to be printed flat on the build plate.

On my printer, I was able to print it without any supports, even the holes turned out perfect.

The orientation also gives the part a favorable layer structure for the expected loads.

I printed my parts in PLA, mainly because it is easy to print. The printed parts feel more rigid than the original plastic components.

For harder use, other materials such as PETG, ASA or similar engineering-oriented filaments could also be considered. However, I have only tested the current design in PLA so far.

Compatibility

Designed in Onshape for the Tamiya Blackfoot platform and potentially compatible with other models using the same front steering knuckle geometry.

Please note: The model includes separate left-hand and right-hand versions. Make sure to print one of each for a complete front axle.

Please compare the dimensions and mounting points with your vehicle before printing.

This model is intended as a replacement part, not as a performance upgrade that changes the suspension geometry.

Disclaimer

This is an independently recreated and reinforced replacement part based on measurements of an original component.

I have tested the printed part on my own Blackfoot, but I cannot guarantee its suitability for every printer, material, driving style or vehicle condition.

Use at your own risk.

If you print it, I would be very interested to hear how it performs and which filament you used. If you find that the part does not fit your particular Blackfoot or compatible model perfectly, please let me know. I am happy to adjust the design and provide an updated version if necessary.

This is an unofficial, community-made replacement part. Tamiya® and Blackfoot® are trademarks of their respective owners and are used solely for compatibility reference.

Update – Improved Fit

I have uploaded an updated version of the reinforced front steering knuckles.

After test-fitting and test-driving the first version for a wile, I found that some of the mounting holes had slightly more play than intended.

In this update, all holes have been reduced slightly (~0,5mm) in diameter to provide a more precise fit and reduce unwanted play.

The overall geometry and reinforcement design remain unchanged.

Important – Axle Pin Installation

The wheel axle pins are intentionally designed as a very tight press fit.

They may need to be pressed into place or carefully tapped in with a small hammer. Take your time and make sure the pin is properly aligned before applying force.

Do not use excessive force, and support the part properly underneath the area around the axle pin to avoid unnecessary stress on the printed component. Also watch the alignment of the top axle pin hole while installing.

Changes:

• Slightly reduced diameter of all mounting holes

• Improved fit and reduced play

• Same reinforced geometry as the previous version

• Still designed to be printed flat on the build plate

• No supports required