[TECHNIQUE] Mixel Steering!

[ThePlasticWerks]

Behold, six-wide steering based on Mixels joints! I am upgrading my fleet of Lego Xterras with this neat technique that I thought up early last week.

For more info, see them here: http://www.eurobrick...topic=90846&hl=

So, it's pretty straightforward: Technic friction ball/pin connector and Mixels 1x2 socket plates.

On the Super Xterra, retaining the solid axle articulation! See below.

On the regular Xterra, which is based on the Great Vehicle build style, there's much less room to move and the effect is very subtle.

The joints have enough friction to stay wherever they're set.

Again, subtle effect with a semi-standard City build due to lack of clearance, but it can steer!

Utilizing the other axis, the Mixel joints coupled with the solid axle in the rear give a pretty convincing impression of independent suspension.

The steering effect really shines when your vehicle is lifted to the heavens:

Somebody needs an alignment!

Oh dear. (another very convincing independent suspension effect :p)

And coupled with some extra articulation...

The one downside I've found is that, due to the friciton pins, the articulated wheels don't spin very freely (though it's advantageous for posing).

Enjoy, and spread the word!

[eurotrash]

Excellent technique and thanks for sharing it with us.

[droomangroup]

very nice, i would worry about them getting out of sync while photographing, but still, i'll have to try it.

i was actually just working on some mixel inspired steering and articulation as well. i used two joints in the back and some curved slopes to provide support and just one in the front. depending on how much fender room you have they don't offer a ton of movement, but enough to look like it's articulating while still being fairly solid.