UGears STEM Lab - Differential

Have you ever wondered how cars' wheels move at different speeds when you turn? If so, assemble the UGears STEM LAB Differential model to learn about the inner workings of your car's transmission. After you finish the model, you have the perfect interactive decoration to display on your dresser or mantlepiece. 

The UGears STEM LAB Differential model features the updates made by Ferdinand Porsche in the 1930s to Onesiphore Pecqueur's 1825 design. The wheel, drive gear, side gear, locking clutch, and locking lever are all made to scale so that you can actually move the parts. To get a better idea of how differentials work, download the UGears augmented reality app and access even more features of your model.

After your model arrives, you don't need to worry about cutting out the pieces or getting glue all over your table. Working from each piece's edge, push the pre-cut parts out of their storage boards. Don't force them or the pieces will bend and rip. Instead, use a small knife to finish removing the parts, and then check each component for rough edges that could keep them from locking properly.

While you don't need wood glue or other specialized equipment to put your model together, you may want to purchase a candle to grease gears that don't work properly. You can also improve the parts' mobility with sandpaper from your local hardware store.

Your model is made out of wood, and the colors are natural: silvery-white on the differential's smooth surfaces, and brown on the edges. If you don't like these colors, break out your watercolors and combine your science lesson with art class. Let the pieces dry completely before assembling them.

The instructions that come with your model explain every step of assembly, but if you're still confused, visit UGear's website to find a PDF of the instructions. As you follow these directions, don't worry if a part breaks. Just email the company a picture of the broken piece, the product information, and your shipping details. Replacements are free as long as the breakage happened during assembly.

People of all ages can enjoy the UGears STEM LAB Differential model, but children under 14 might have trouble on their own. For teens who love science and enjoy working with their hands, though, this is the perfect present. There is plenty of work to keep several people busy, so clear your schedule and help your kids complete the project.

When you want to learn how your car's transmission and steering work but you also want to complete a craft, purchase a model differential from UGears. After you've assembled the model, manipulate the different parts and watch the differential move. Engineering has never been so accessible or fun.

Model Size: 6.9 x 5.3 x 4.1 in
Package size: 8.1 x 7.4 x 2.5 in
Number of parts: 163
Level: Easy
Assembly Time: 2 hours
Recommended Age: 8+
Kit weight: 1.06 lbs

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