Re: Modern Parts for an Old Favorite (483)?

Jeff:

This approach has been done in classic car restoration for a number of years. For small parts (e.g. less than around 8") you can do all the work on your home computer and your desktop 3Dprinter. For larger parts you can approach reproduction in different ways. It is best to start with an original part(s) on which to build a CAD solid model, next choice would be a set of drawings and the third option are good quality photos from which you can get scaled dimensions. I generally take accurate measurements of an original but an alternative is to digitize the object using laser scanning. The CAD solid model from a laser scan will normally need to be "cleaned up" before using it for 3Dprinting.

As I said, if the object is small you can 3Dprint it at home. I would recommend using either ABS or nylon over PLA for the sake of durability. Your finished product will likely need some detailing before you paint it. If the object is large there are several companies you can find that will 3Dprint the object if you email them an *.stl file of your CAD solid model.

Finally, it takes some time getting use to building CAD solid models for 3Dprinting. Objects must be constructed for additive manufacturing which is a different approach than say milling which is a subtractive fabrication approach. Also there are lots of subtle features (such as infill density) which will improve the final 3Dprinted object.

Phil