Your own CNC (and Custom Spark Plug Covers)

[cjbyron]

Ever want your very own CNC machine? LOL, you and me both.
The next best thing is FrontPanelExpress online
(some say even better, no overhead, maintenance or other fees!)

It’s a great service and I use them for custom plates like for the nw3s racecar. You download their free software and design your own plate however you want. Very streamlined process and excellent customer service. Front Panel Express:*Custom Front Panels with free Front Panel Designer to download the free software and view information. Limited only by your imagination and has tons of uses (like gauge plates, stereo inserts, switch panels, etc). Pricing is very nice as are the people that run the company.

Here’s an example of one I just got back the other day (this is 6mm black powdercoated)



They turn out very nice. All the engraving is filled with automotive grade paint.

To save you some time (for SP cover):

I have an existing file with the spark plug cover plate dimensions and holes already done that you're welcome to use. It is blank so you just put in whatever you want to have on the plate (and choose thickness, color, etc). That should save everyone a lot of time. Create your own personalized or unique cover easily!

Download generic 6G7s plate here: http://nw3s.net/SPP_GEN_1.fpd
(right click and select save target)

This has all the holes there but a lot of people just like 4 (2 left side, 2 right side, delete the other 4 in middle). Like many other aftermarket designs the plates are thick enough that 4 screws are sufficient and 8 are not needed. This dbx is set for M6 allen countersink screws (you can find at most any hardware store) and for 6mm thickness. Of course you can change to whatever type screws you want. You can do anodized AL or powdercoated. Infill paint holds up to heat no problem. They don’t offer a polish option.

To save you money:

Here’s a referral code that gives you 20% off your first order.

6J307Q79
(expires 7-31-11)

I strongly suggest watching the software tutorials at Front Panel Express:*Tutorials

Even if not using every feature listed each tutorial shows/teaches very useful info and I recommend taking the time to view them. They’re short and will save you time in the long run in using the program properly. It is also very important to understand how the cutters work in relationship to font size and number of passes/cuts. The only thing that isn’t easy is using vector based artwork into a hpgl file. That gets a bit complicated and you’ll want to work with the company on converting artwork or images.

I have some other important tips if you want them (such as properly aligning vertical or horizontal, distribution, turn off the stupid grid, print at 100% to test fit before ordering, and so on).

Enjoy!!

[FeaRpb]

That is awesome. I would love to make some gauge plates and plug covers.

[cjbyron]

Besides spark plug cover plate (which is what I thought others might really be interested in), here some other plates I've made/used this year. Just FYI to show the options and things. I'll have a few other spark plug plate shots shortly.

[jrod]

Very Cool!!

[green-lantern]

WOW very cool! I'll definitely check this out. I wouldn't mind seeing more pics of your car lol.

[cjbyron]

haha. Thanks man. Enjoy.

I'll update photos at the cars website once the new plates and pneumatic control systems are installed completely. In the process.
Hopefully sometime next month.

[green-lantern]

haha. Thanks man. Enjoy.

I'll update photos at the cars website once the new plates and pneumatic control systems are installed completely. In the process.
Hopefully sometime next month.

Cars website?

[cjbyron]

I can PM you whatever you like on the car itself.
I'd rather that than the thread get offtopic from the CNC plate. See your in box

[BaadVR4]

Approximate price for a spark plug cover with just "VR-4" engraved?

[cjbyron]

Plain Aluminum (no powdercoating) and just "VR-4" should be about 80-90 bucks. That's for 6mm thick, 4 holes. In the program there is an icon in the top menu that is a pic of coins. You click that and it tells you the total plus also breaks down the cost for each tool change, process, infill, etc.