Charlie,
Some of the new laser printers use a powdered metal to print the part.  Anything from plastic to titanium.  Neat idea for a limited supply parts store and the prices aren't as bad as you think.
Roger Robertson

On 5/5/2011 1:53 PM, Charlie England wrote:

I'm excited to see all the activity on the accessory cover/adapter plate, & don't want to divert any attention. But Ed's post several days ago describing how he made his intake manifold triggered a thought that might need to go on the shelf for next action.

The original idea that started all this was an intake manifold. My intent is to use a very simple manifold similar to Tracy's Otter manifold, but for those who need a more complex layout, what about this:  If Jarrett, or anyone else on here, has access to one of the new '3D printers', doing a manifold should be a piece of cake for anyone with CAD skills (it ain't me...). Apparently, there are 3D printers that can use all manner of materials now. I wonder if you could 'grow' an aluminum or other light/strong/chemical resistant manifold directly in the printer. Something similar to the plastic coiled tube manifolds on new V8's comes to mind.

OK, back under my rock....

Charlie