Intellectually, I know that the low volume radically affects the
economics, but it really is hard to get over. When I think back on what
it costs to have an injection mold made... well they ARE really
expensive. Also, given the HUNDREDS of little bits and pieces needed for
all these planes and models, each requiring a different mold. O.K.

I'm over it (I'm still going to repaint the old stuff!!!).

As for automotive plastic, I usually buy aftermarket. Most of it is
pretty good.

Mike



wrote:

I feel your pain. We just placed an order with Plane Parts for some
interior items for our Arrow. One overhead vent console, 2 louvered vents,
4 floor vent cups, one floor rib cover. Total cost: $333.60 plus shipping.

But the reason the cost is so high isn't just (or even primarily) the
"aviation surcharge". Its the exceedingly low volume in which these parts
are produced. Take the overhead console, for example. Plane Parts may sell
just one or two per month of the particular part we needed. Yet, to design
and make the tooling they need to produce the part may have cost several
thousand dollars.

And have you priced automotive plastic parts lately? The headlamp lens for
a typical car may cost well over a hundred bucks. If it's a Mercedes the
price may be several hundred.


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