Joah
1
I’m just wondering if it is possible to print a transmission bellhousing from two existing bellhousings. They are approx 15 inches in diameter and 10 inches tall.
2 Likes
typo
2
Most of our printers only work in plastic. You might be able to print a mold then cast a part from the mold.
Joah
3
Thanks for your reply, plastic should be strong enough to be used as a bellhousing.
1 Like
Depend on your build plate. You may have to print two halves and then epoxy them together
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Wouldn’t want to start an argument, @Joah but have you ever seen a plastic bellhousing?
For a start, gearboxes, and clutches get hot. That’s one reason bell housings have cooling fins. Also, they support the engine and transmission, which is another reason for the fins - Strengthening. I know it’s an extreme example but competition bellhousings are made from 3/8" welded aluminium. Partly to protect the car occupants from flying remnants of clutch/flywheel/torque converter if they explode. I have a feeling that ABS wouldn’t do quite the same job of supporting the drive train, cooling or protection, unless it was at least 2 inches thick.
Just my ten cents.
Cheers,
AndyL
Pot8oSh3D
2 Likes
Joah
6
Please don’t bother responding Andy unless you have valid information. Torque converters do not explode in passenger vehicles, and clutches explode when engines are revved to 8500+ rpm stall to get a jump off the line, and an aluminum 3/8 bellhousing will not suffice to protect the driver, a shield must be used. A bellhousing is not used to house a gear box. This type of response infuriates me to no end as it is so negative: it can’t be done, it’s impossible blah blah. Anything is possible if someone wants it. We could probably go 3/4" thick and we could build a vein structure around it to make some air flow.
So sorry to have infuriated you with my contribution, Joah. I didn’t say not to do it. Of course, you’re perfectly at liberty to do as you wish. If you wish to use a completely unsuitable material for any purpose you like, who am I to tell you what to do? I’ll be the first to congratulate you on the unveiling of your ice-cream pistons. 
1 Like
Joah
8
All right Andy, try to have a nice day, it’s nice out,
Cheers,
Certainly was and now I’m off to bed.
Night night
