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Finally busted the brittle lower tabs that support the cluster switch panel (binnacle) of my FC dash while replacing the instrument cluster bulbs with red LED's.. I suppose it's possible to let the panel float supported by the upper three screws, but I decided to attempt a repair of the two lower tabs by 3D printing replacement tabs that screw onto the dash surround. Here's a pic of the broken left lower tab:
Busted lower left instrument binnacle support tab
The winning design is this tab layout mounted to the plastic dash surround lip using two #6 flat-head screws.
I printed this part using a PC alloy with decent strength up to interior temps of ~160F. The final printed tab accepts the factory steel panel nut and appears to fit fine. Now you know.
Where did you find the STL file? I printed a similar one that I found online, but it requires you to file away the old tab and then glue this one in. I'd rather use the screw method with glue as support.
Well, I'll be darned. I currently have one that I know is broken and one that will probably break when I attempt to fix the other one. Epoxy only seems to work so well on these things. I'll have to see if I know someone with a 3D printer and do this when it comes time to fix it.
Thanks gang. Yeah I considered a bonded version but fortunately, the FC dash design has space available next to the tab for the fasteners, so I used that area. Other tabs may not have that real estate, so bonding would be the only available alternative.
Nice work. Both mine are broken. I joke around that I need to get a 3D printer to make some of the little broken plastic bits in my car. Defroster vents, interior mirror trim covers, etc. What printer do you have?
^ I like the way you think mr_vaughn, unfortunately money exchange introduces issues I'm currently not setup to address. South Redondo Bch is a stones throw from me in LBC though.
Regarding my 3D printer, I've got a Makers Tool Works (MTW) Create which is a great printer with linear rails, but costs more than a typical Creality Ender unit because it's designed in the USA. I've built a custom enclosure that allows me to print decent size models with ABS, ASA, and PC filaments.
Last edited by cone_crushr; Mar 24, 2021 at 12:18 PM.
Nice work. Both mine are broken. I joke around that I need to get a 3D printer to make some of the little broken plastic bits in my car. Defroster vents, interior mirror trim covers, etc. What printer do you have?
I got a Creality Ender 3 V2 recently (for a different project initially, but I'll be printing these soon). I think it's probably the best value for the money in terms of entry-level 3D printers. The assembly is tedious and the bed needs to be relevelled constantly (upgrade the springs), but considering the cost the results are impressive.
I have also been able to print several smaller ABS prints without an enclosure, though it's a good idea for a larger part. I don't think I could print vent covers without one since the print likes to warp over a large area.
OPs recommendation looks more expensive, but I have no doubt the quality is better since it's made in the USA. I have heard of quality control issues with Creality, although apparently their warranty service is excellent.
