printed rallye wheel center caps

[ec_co]

I only have 2 center caps and thought 'why not print the other 2?' after a few iterations I just about have it nailed down now - it's @ a 97% match, good enough for me without spending a lot more time to get that last 3%. originals weigh 1.37lbs, mine is .28lbs - probably won't make a different in center mass, but 2lbs is 2lbs. I included a little video short for your curiosity - this is a 22 hour print. I just did this for fun and myself, not really worth the extreme print time right now for production unless someone *really* wanted a set (if I ever get a 2nd machine I'll probably offer them, but can't justify it yet)

[mtull]

Very Cool!  Thanks for sharing.  How did you come up with the print files?  Did you scan the original center cap or design by hand?

Thank you
M.

[ec_co]

Very Cool!  Thanks for sharing.  How did you come up with the print files?  Did you scan the original center cap or design by hand?

Thank you
M.

designed in Autocad with assistance as I'm still honing my skills

[mtull]

designed in Autocad with assistance as I'm still honing my skills

Even more impressive!
 

[captcolour]

What resin?

[ec_co]

What resin?

This one is my last test print in PLA, I'll be using ASA for the ones I mount (better chemical and weather resistance)

[70_440-6Cuda]

What is the "last 3%" difference out of curiosity?  Very impressive creating from scratch and very cool!

What are your plans for the trim ring?

[ec_co]

What is the "last 3%" difference out of curiosity?  Very impressive creating from scratch and very cool!

What are your plans for the trim ring?

The last % is the thickness where the cone base transitions to the sidewall at the lug nut hole - originals are about 3mm and mine is about 7mm. I kept it that way to add a little more strength and it's something no one but me would probably notice. I plan on trying one more test print to test out what is called a 'fuzzy wall' setting where it would add a texture to help hide the print lines.

Zero plans for trim rings, my print bed is limited to about 240*240mm (9.5"). I would love to work on other needed parts though

[70_440-6Cuda]

@ec_co I meant the chrome trim on the end of the center cap - are those available aftermarket? 

Just curious- I have steel wheels / hub caps, but your project is very interesting - I love seeing the home built  ingenuity - 3D printing may be the new '50s Kustom Kulture...

[ec_co]

@ec_co I meant the chrome trim on the end of the center cap - are those available aftermarket? 

Gotcha, I'm going to use a chrome/silver paint. It won't be as nice as the metal ones, but from 5-10' I think it'll look fine.

[70_440-6Cuda]

I assume you are going to 3D print that as well?  I wonder if you could have them chromed?  Super cool project -nicely done!

[YellowThumper]

I am using ASA with carbon fiber (fibre for some).
Besides the added strength, it does matt the surface finishes eliminating the gloss.

[Duodec]

The metal center caps (the trim piece on the center of your caps) are available; I've seen them on ebay (I think they're adhesive backed).  I'd bet some of repro vendors carry them too, if you think they're necessary.