How to Create an Exploded View Drawing in SOLIDWORKS

An exploded view drawing shows how assembly components fit together. In SOLIDWORKS, the exploded view is usually created in the assembly first, then placed into a drawing view with balloons, a bill of materials, and notes.

Create the exploded view in the assembly

Open the assembly and create an exploded view from the ConfigurationManager. Move components step by step so the assembly separates clearly. Keep the direction and distance of each explode step easy to understand.

A good exploded view should reveal how parts assemble without making the drawing crowded. Avoid moving components farther than necessary just to make the view look dramatic.

Build the explosion in a logical assembly order. Fasteners, covers, plates, shafts, and internal parts should separate in a way that a reader can follow without guessing which item belongs where.

Add explode lines if needed

Explode lines show the path components follow during assembly. Use explode line sketches or auto-route tools where they make the view easier to read. Not every component needs a line, but critical fasteners, shafts, and stacked parts often benefit from them.

Check that explode lines do not cross confusingly through other parts. Clean line routing makes the drawing easier for shop and assembly users.

Insert the exploded view into a drawing

Create or open a drawing, then insert a model view of the assembly. Select the exploded configuration or choose the exploded view option for the drawing view. Set the scale so the view fits comfortably on the sheet.

If the drawing view does not show the explosion, return to the assembly and confirm that the exploded view exists in the correct configuration.

Use a drawing scale that leaves room for balloons and notes. A view that fills the sheet may look impressive, but it can leave no space for the information that makes the drawing useful.

Add balloons and a bill of materials

Exploded drawings are usually paired with balloons and a BOM. Insert the bill of materials, then add balloons to identify each component. Use consistent balloon placement so the drawing can be read quickly.

Check that item numbers match the BOM and that hidden or suppressed parts are handled correctly. A clean exploded view is not useful if the item numbers are wrong.

Control visibility and display style

Use hidden lines, shaded views, tangent edges, and component visibility intentionally. For dense assemblies, a shaded exploded view may be easier to read. For manufacturing drawings, line views may be preferred depending on the documentation standard.

Hide components only when doing so improves clarity and does not misrepresent the assembly. If a part is omitted from the view, make sure the BOM and notes still make sense.

Troubleshooting

If the exploded drawing view updates incorrectly, rebuild the assembly and drawing. If explode lines are missing, check whether the explode line sketch is visible and whether the drawing view is linked to the correct exploded view.

If balloons do not match the BOM, review assembly structure, configuration, item numbering, and BOM type. Parts-only and indented BOMs can produce different item numbering.

Before releasing the drawing, print or export a PDF and review the sheet at normal reading size. Confirm that the exploded view, BOM, balloons, and notes work together as one clear assembly instruction.

For assemblies with many similar fasteners, double-check that the balloon leaders point to the correct parts. Small mistakes in an exploded view can cause real assembly confusion even when the CAD model is correct.