Anyone 3D Printing Parts yet?

The last couple of months has been a work break for me and I investigated 3D Printing (among other things)

A search brought up zero Ferrari parts, though I did find a printable Lotus Europa part: Lotus Europa Instrument Pod by LeftAngle - Thingiverse

For anyone with some time to spare this technology is about ready for semi-handy types to print small parts. Most 328s I looked at had at least one missing knobs for the fan etc. These should be a doddle to print with an entry level printer (~$600). Anything much bigger than 4"x4" have a lot of patience or wait a few years for technology to improve

If anyone is interested please take a peek at my write up and I'll try to answer any questions: Should I buy a 3D Printer? | Paul Lockwood's technology focused blog

Personally I've opted to buy a much newer Ferrari but still really enjoy reading this sub-forum especially for the DIY repairs. Would prefer a 328 GTS but struggle to find spare time as is

 

There are several places on line you can up load a 3D file to and they will ship you the print out. One I found will even print in stainless steel.

 

Someone in the last two or three months was printing up defroster vents.

 

I have an Ultimaker but to be honest this type of printer is only good for rough CAD prototypes, which is what I use it for. Anything that requires a decent finish either has to be properly molded or in the case of a less critical part done by a bureau using a high-end 3D printer.

 

Tend to agree. Smooth ABS parts can be obtained via acetone vapour: RepRap: Blog: Vapor Treating ABS RP parts IMO something like an AC vent and would be acceptable from a dialed-in entry level printer espeically if printed using ABS and smoothed.

Another link for those who have not seen them yet. Shapeways is a very popular place for having 3D files printed in a variety of materials including casting from a 3D printed mold: Shapeways