3/8" Drive Heim Joint Bearing Installation Tool – STL File for Van’s Aircraft Builders

This downloadable STL file lets you 3D print your own heim joint bearing installation tool, purpose-designed for the tight, hard-to-reach rod-end bearings found throughout Van’s RV-series aircraft. The tool fits any standard 3/8" drive ratchet, giving you the leverage and control needed to thread bearings cleanly without damaging threads, scratching surfaces, or fighting awkward angles.

The model is optimized for printing in ASA (recommended), ABS, or other strong engineering filaments suitable for shop and hangar environments. When printed in a durable material, this tool makes installing trailing-edge and control-surface bearings far easier, more precise, and far less frustrating.

Designed by an RV-8 builder specifically for fellow homebuilders, this tool is a simple print that quickly becomes one of those “why didn’t I make this sooner?” shop essentials.

STL License & Usage Terms (Applies to All Products)

By purchasing any STL file from this store, you are receiving a personal-use license for your own aircraft project. You may 3D print the file as many times as needed for your individual build, but you may not share, resell, redistribute, or upload the digital file or any printed versions.

Commercial use of any kind is strictly prohibited, including but not limited to:

Selling printed versions of the part

Providing the part or file to others (paid or unpaid)

Using the design in kits, bundles, commercial aircraft projects, or reseller platforms

Posting or distributing the STL in any online repository, group, or forum

Purchase of the file constitutes agreement to these terms.

Liability & Use Disclaimer (Applies to All Products)

All STL files and resulting 3D-printed parts are provided as-is, with no warranty—express or implied. By purchasing, downloading, or printing any STL file, you acknowledge and agree that:

You are solely responsible for selecting appropriate materials, print orientation, infill, print settings, and final part quality.

You assume all responsibility for determining whether the printed component is suitable, safe, and airworthy for your specific aircraft and installation.

The designer/maker assumes no liability for any damages, failures, injuries, losses, or issues arising from the use, misuse, modification, or installation of the part.

These designs are intended for experimental, amateur-built aircraft, where the builder is responsible for all fabrication decisions and safety evaluations.

You must verify fit, function, and durability before installing any printed component in your aircraft.

Use, download, or purchase of any STL from this store constitutes acceptance of these terms.