The rear bumper end caps on the 280z were done. These are the rubber corner pieces that wrap around each end of the rear bumper, and after nearly 50 years they were cracked and deteriorated. Replacements? Nobody makes them. Not surprising for a part that Nissan stopped producing decades ago.
I decided to 3D scan the original part and build a digital model from the scan data. The first shot shows the original on the kitchen table covered in scan targets. Once I had the scan, I spent a good amount of time in the modeling software cleaning up imperfections and customizing the model to fit both the right and left sides of my car specifically. It took a few prototype prints to get the fit dialed in.
Once I was happy with the geometry I test fitted one on the car to verify everything lined up with the bumper and body. For the finish, I went with Plasti Dip black topped with Plasti Dip clear for UV protection. This matches the treatment I'd already applied to the rest of the bumper rubber, so everything looks consistent.
The end result looks like it belongs there. Another unobtainable part brought back to life with a scanner, a printer, and some patience.
