Wondering if any of the forum members have supplied information, measurements, or actual parts to a parts reproducer so they can make reproductions of that part? Was there any payment (i.e. the new part was free to you) for the work you did?
I ask because late last year I inquired to a suppler about a part I needed (non-automotive) as they supplied similar restoration parts. At that time they did not make that particular part but would be interested in reproducing it if they could get the information they needed. I offered to try and furnish the information they needed if they would be willing to reproduce it and they agreed. I spent a fair amount of time taking exact measurements, photos, and a template of my original that was complete but in poor condition. They thanked me for the information and said they would let me know when it was available if they decided to go forward with the item.
I received a email last week informing me that the new part was available and they sent me a link. The cost to me was $35.00, the list price that every customer pays. In the back of my mind I was a little "hurt", I assumed (you know what happens when you assume) that for the work I did for them for free, and considering the part doesn't cost hundreds of dollars, I would get it for free or at a substantial discount.
Am I wrong in my thinking? Other people's experiences?