vicpanza

My sense is that this process may be optimal in making the model from which we can cast parts, in a more traditional manor. Having a 3-D digital image that can be tweaked to make corrections, and then archived for future use may be of value. There have been significant advancements in this technology and it's bound to get even better. Once again, just starting to research this with a few colleagues who are in the industry.

Here's a cool video of the process:

Thanks for all of your feedback. I have been looking at some new processes that utilize a three dimensional laser that scans the part and creates a digital copy of it. One can then edit the file to make corrections should there be any issues with the original part. Once this is done, there are several options to produce these. The digital file can be used in a new process that "prints" the part in various (finished) materials, or can be used to make a wax copy for use in making a mold. The interesting aspect of this new process, is that once the digital file is done, the cost to product parts is about the same regardless of quantity. I need to find a link that better describes this process, but it is gaining a good deal of popularity for specialty manufacturing of low volume parts. The precision of the process is now exceptional as well. The beauty of this process is that once the original file is made, the parts can be produced on an as needed basis! I think I can solve the challenges of production. Now the question is what to make, and getting to the base cost! Given that I don't have a part, guess that the first task at hand is to find a nice original to scan. Thanks to everyone. Vic

1937 dodge This is another sedan that just showed up on Craigs List in the Pittsburgh area

Thanks for your comments. Looks like we are neighbors, as I am in South Butler County! I have a sense as to the retail threshold and suspect that it needs to be under $350. The folks I am speaking with do some casting for Harley Davidson, and I am confident in the quality of their product. I am going to look into a run of about ten units, and if they can do this and keep me in the $350 retail range, might be a viable product for this small market. Need to find a sample to get them started on estimating costs, etc. Might have to pay $500 and buy one of those replated originals off of eBay. You wouldn't have anything around that we might use?? Thanks

I would like to ask the group for some feedback regarding manufacturing of hard to find parts for our old Dodge autos and trucks. What stimulated my interest in this is my need for a Ram hood ornament (#651992) for my 1937 MC pickup truck. I have resources for all sorts of fabrication and casting services and have been told that casting this (and other) hood ornaments and grills is quite possible, and that with the new technology, may be fairly reasonable. So my question is this, what are the four or five most desirable (most volume or most needed) parts that we might consider making. And, what do you think would be a reasonable retail price for them? Please be assured that the casting would be high quality zinc castings that will be properly plated (we will duplicate the original manufacturing process). Given that I have limited experience with older Dodge production, I am quite open to input and assistance. Finally, if we decide to make a cast part, I will need an original (almost any quality is OK) to copy. Might someone have a ram (651992) that they would be willing to lend to the project, or sell? Thanks in advance for your time and consideration. Vic (724-625-4440)

I received these pictures today from the fellow who is parting out a 1936 Dodge sedan. I posted pictures of this car earlier. If you have any interest in these parts, please contact this fellow directly at jfogpond@yahoo.com . His name is John Kaye.

Thanks again. I assume you have one of these trucks?? The engine and VIN numbers are correct for the 1937 year, (T38-28365). I am more inclined to try and restore the truck to original condition, and rebuild the original motor. Have been scouring the parts books and see that most of the drive train and brake parts are available. It's always those body and door parts that are a killer. I have some leads on missing parts and have resources available to make some items. I am selling off my 1946 and 47 Dodge trucks, and really focusing on the 1936-38 series. I was thinking that it might be interesting to start fabricating parts for these trucks as there are so many items that are just not available. I have a relationship with some folks who have a huge machining business and have a large network of fabricators, etc. They think that they can get grills made, and other parts that might be desirable. Love to chat with you sometime if you have one of these trucks, and/or have some interest in parts, etc. Thanks Vic

Thanks for your comments. After posting this, and doing some additional reading, I figured this out!! There is some confusing info in one of the books I was using, and they actually have an error regarding the dash boards. With any luck, I'll close on this truck in the next few days. Might you have any suggestions on a few of the really hard parts such as the front window crank, bumper and rear fenders?? Thanks Vic Panza

I see his email didn't print: dvmininger@hotmail.com

I don't have extra's on them, but you may be able to get them from a friend of mine. His contact info is: "Dan Mininger" <dvmininger@hotmail.com> I had spoken to him a few weeks ago about a speedometer and he had one. I will be cataloging my spare parts this weekend and will post a list! Thanks Vic

No significant rust. Just screwed up rear fenders! The rest of the body is manageable. So what would you pay for this truck (I'm still negotiating)

Thanks for your comments Vic Panza

By the way, here are some pictures of the 1937 truck I am looking at. Appreciate any thoughts regarding general condition, etc.

Thanks. This is a very cool truck. Did you have an opportunity to look over the pictures of the truck I am considering. Really love to speak with you about this project, if you might be so inclined. While I am very experienced with 1940's vintage Dodge trucks, it seems that the 1930 versions are a real challenge regarding parts. I am hesitant to buy the truck I located in Pittsburgh for the asking price as it needs quite a few hard to find parts. If you would consider a call, would really appreciate a few minutes of your time. My direct email is vicpanza@gmail.com. Thanks Vic

I have a like new pass door and a boatload of other parts. Grills, nose pieces, door parts, wiper motors. Am trying to get pictures done this weekend. It's at my farm in Somerset PA. Not too far from MD Let me know if I can be of help. Vic Panza 724-625-4440

Hello: i am very new to this forum and was wondering if I might get some advise. I have several 1940 era Dodge trucks, and have been looking at a 1937 MC. I took some pictures of this truck and am trying to attach. One point of confusion is that the dash has the two large gauge clusters that are correct for a 1938, but the VIN and engine numbers are correct for a 1937. I assume that this might have been late 1937 production and got a 1938 dash?? Or could it have been changed?? The grill is damaged and the front bumper is missing. The rear fenders are cut off on the front edge. Any thoughts about these parts, and overall value for this truck? Any thoughts will be appreciated. Vic Panza, Pittsburgh

Thanks for getting back to me so quickly. Not sure I need front fenders, but good to know some may be available. Love to see your project if you have pictures to share. Thanks Vic vicpanza@gmail.com

Hello: Was wondering if anyone might have a source for a pair of rear fenders for a 1938 1/2 ton pickup. Also need seat frames. Have a 1946 and 1947 Dodge truck, but this is my first of the 1936-38 era. Just starting to look for some of the larger parts. I have a number of parts for 1939-47 trucks, if anyone is looking for items. Thanks in advance for your help and consideration. Vic