Finding it hard to get custom parts made?

[darkcat]

Morning all
I'm currently building a Mini engine conversion, and have been struggling to find a machinist to do some bits for me, so i got thinking...

(dont worry this isnt an advert!)

Is there a website that allows people to post what they are looking for (say a driveshaft or a sprocket mount flange) and then machine shops quote, almost like a reverse auction??
If not, do you think this might be a good idea? as depending on initial feedback im considering setting something up...
Ive seen similar things for shipping (Shipley) and they seem very popular.

[OlegI]

I don't know if this helps: http://www.emachineshop.com/

I don't order from them due to the shipping from the U.S., but if you download their software you can get a quote to give an idea of cost for the work.

[darkcat]

Interesting... close to what im after, but i was looking to get the machine shops to compete in order to get prices down. And UK based.

[OlegI]

Tbh, I've ended up going to the closest place when I've needed custom parts. Since these tend to be relatively heavy pieces, being able to pick them up tends to outweigh the minor savings from a cheaper place that has to post them. I don't know if that's true everywhere though.

[darkcat]

OlegI said:

Tbh, I've ended up going to the closest place when I've needed custom parts. Since these tend to be relatively heavy pieces, being able to pick them up tends to outweigh the minor savings from a cheaper place that has to post them. I don't know if that's true everywhere though.

Thats fair - however mail order could well work for the smaller bits...

[Kit2Kar]

Send me a pm with what you want may be able to help !!

[uk89camaro]

I also have found a local machinist and a stainless/ally welder, but I also found this on the bay. Decent work at very decent prices.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Kit-Car-Brackets-Fixings...