msmcgill

I own a 1984 Mazda RX-7 GS. The turn signal self-cancel lever broke last year. You must replace the entire turn signal mechanism when this lever breaks - assuming that you can find one. They aren't cheap! I wasn't unable to find a replacement lever (only) for sale anywhere. After a couple of failed attempts at repairing the original lever with epoxy adhesive and steel reinforcement, I decided to model the lever with CADD and 3D-print a new one using durable, heat-resistant PTEG plastic filament. I installed the 3D-printed lever, and it works like a charm! The part is holding up well in the harsh environment of the Arizona desert. I am considering selling 3D printed turn signal self-cancel levers through the vendor classifieds on this website and elsewhere. Before I move forward with production and marketing, I need to determine if there is a demand for this part. Let me know if you have experienced a similar failure.

Twennyseeks

There's definitely demand, especially in this heat! I printed one myself from a file someone put in the RX7 discord. First out of PLA+ (failed after a few weeks), now out of ABS (Has yet to fail). I had the same idea so you to be honest LOL

chirmstream

I think you may have long term issues with PETG and will need to step up to ABS for any automotive prints. This has been my experience.

msmcgill

Thanks for the feedback. Honestly, the only filament that I had available when I made the part for my RX7 was clear PLA. So far, so good...but I only drive the car occasionally. Since then, I have made several levers using PTEG and have been "field testing" one by exposing it directly to the hot Arizona sun and elements (which will never happen inside an RX7 steering wheel). It has been out in the scorching weather for a few weeks and is showing no signs of degradation so far. I believe that ABS filament is compatible with my 3D printer. I've never used it before. Does it release a toxic odor during printing?

chirmstream

It does release toxic fumes, yes. I’ve gone down this same rabbit hole of 3d printing car parts as well but haven’t actually done it yet because my printer just isn’t capable yet. The big items my research yielded was you’ll probably want an all metal hot end, and an enclosure with a filtered exhaust for the fumes.

LongDuck

Yaknow, a bunch of us likely have 3D printers... If you wanted to give something back to the community, you could just share the .STL file and we could all experiment with materials and share the results. How much $$$ were you thinking you'd make on this side-gig? Serious question.

There's definitely a need, but as others have said, the material matters first and foremost. I'm also in the Sonoran Desert,

msmcgill

I don't expect to get rich, but I'm not going communist so that some unscrupulous capitalist can make money off of my work.

DWNUNDR

iTrader: (1)

what part are you talking about.. the little ring inside the assembly that breaks off the pins? or a lever?

Ive been considering milling al ones for the cancel ring inside... but havent bothered yet

KansasCityREPU

iTrader: (9)

Rename to .stl

Toruki

I was curious too. KC posted the little lever that looks like this

Twennyseeks

Thats the exact one I printed! Lol

msmcgill

As of last year, you could still buy a NOS (cam?) ring, which trips the turn-signal cancel lever, online. I replaced that first, then the lever broke a few weeks later. In hindsight, I should have modeled and printed the ring, too. I may eventually do that now that I have a more reliable and capable printer. I agree with the other commenters that say ABS filament is the way to go. The only problem is that I don't want to "melt" ABS in the house, and it is too hot (100 degrees plus) to print in the garage. Although, I am considering investing in a portable A/C.

msmcgill

There you go folks! Why pay when you can download one for free? Does a 3D printer come with the file? I fought communism and communism won.

msmcgill

See my reply to KC...and yes, some public libraries do have 3D printers.

KansasCityREPU

iTrader: (9)

I found the STL here. We are a community that helps each other. Nothing to do with politics or communism. Just friendly people that lend a hand and share without an agenda. If that's not your thing, there are other forums.

https://www.printables.com/model/260...r-bridge/files

LongDuck

Thanks, KCrepu - I've been on this forum for over 20 years and the genuine help and assistance is unmatched. It's not about capitalism vs. communism - it's about rotary enthusiasts making each other's lives a little easier and cars a little nicer through free access to information and help when needed.

Just think what this place would be like if you had to pay for advice, a second set of eyes, or someone else's opinion just to keep your old car on the road and enjoyable to drive? For anyone who DOESN'T have a 3D printer - now you know who to go to!

msmcgill

Check my profile. I've been a member for 19 years. There is a difference between access to free information and access to free parts. I am not selling anything, yet. I am doing marketing research. I can't compete with free. Parts don't pop out of a toaster or even a 3D printer. I would be willing to trade 3D printed parts, however.

msmcgill

3D model

Prototype in PTEG

Prototype in clear PLA and OEM lever below

THIS IS ALL MY WORK FROM SCRATCH - 3D MODELING AND PRINTING (except for OEM lever).

LongDuck

Dude, you've been here almost 20 years, and you have 67 posts, 6 of which are in THIS THREAD doing "market research".

A quick read through your post listing shows you were most active in 2004 - asking for help with your A/C, aside from other calls for assistance. Here's an opportunity to contribute something to your fellow rotorheads, not make $$$ off of them.

You quoted my post directly, so I'm responding to you directly,