3D Printer TPU Shock Absorber Bushings: CAD files

A walk through of the OpenSCAD files for 3D printed TPU shock absorber bushings.

The SCAD files all share similar variable names and layout. The inner and outer dimensions have separate clearance parameters to make dialing in the exact printed size of the parts easier. Originally, I hard coded these clearance values into the actual ID and OD parameters and that made it hard to change from one hole size to another. The basic idea is to print a sample bushing an then either measure the ID and OD dimensions, as printed, or just test fit into the shock mount and shock eye and adjust as needed.

The ODextra parameter can be used to adjust the fit of the bushing in the shock eye. If you make that too large, you may find the middle of the bushing will shrink in as the narrow center of the shock eye compresses the ID of the bushing when you install it. On my front shock mount, I like to have the bushings somewhat loose since I have to shove the upper rod through 3 bushings in a row.

For printing TPU bushings, I generally use 100% infill, with a concentric pattern. I also find it best to print only one part at a time as TPU isn't very tolerant of retractions. I find it prints best if it just extrudes nearly continuously. I use a BuildTak PEI print sheet with talcum powder to aid in releasing the part.

3D CAD Files:
Original: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5411334
New: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6488040
https://cults3d.com/en/users/4Crawler/3d-models
https://www.printables.com/model/777568-rancho-shock-absorber-bushings

I used the Zyltech TPU filament:
https://www.zyltech.com/zyltech-filament/zyltech-specialty-filament/?_bc_fsnf=1&Materials=TPU
Shore hardness: 95A

If you make some of these bushings, post a comment here or on the Thingiverse/Cults3D/Printables site what filament you used and how they worked for you.

More to come, making custom metric sleeves for the TPU bushings...
Subscribe for more content like this
Comment, like, share & cli..