I made some 3D models of the parts, and had them 3D-printed at Shapeways. The plastic feels strong enough, but it flexes too much to actually be used. I really had them 3d-printed for prototyping, as it's quick and cheap, and I want to do some small tweaks to them before I get the final parts CNC'd in alu. With 3d-printing I can tweak them and make small adjustments until they are perfect.Sharp eyes will see that the shock now is in front of the arms, instead of behind them. There is now more than enough clearance from the scorpions rollcage. I have also added thrust bearings between the support plate and the arms, in place of the spacers used before. The next step is to get some countersunk "grooves" for the thrust bearings on both the support plate and the arms, as well as countersunk holes for the screws. The goal is to make it more compact and go clear of the radio tub, so it can be used on a scorp without modifying the tub. I'm not sure if I will be able to do that, though..... But all the fun is in trying!
Disclaimer: I don't care if monoshocks are worse than individual shocks, and I'm sure that there are many shock setups that are better than this for racing. The point is that I'm more of a mech/engineering type of guy than a racing driver, and I find great satisfaction in doing things like this. Making things unique, and different from what you normally see. Of course making it work well is a big goal, but I'm really not concerned if it works better than this or that. Fitting a stabilizer bar is the next project, as that should counter the body roll that usually comes with monoshocks. As for the added weight.... I hear that the scorp is front heavy, well, not mine
Tom
