Jay Leno Delves Deeper Into 3D Printing For Classic Cars

Celebrity endorsements are all around us, but the last thing you’d expect is someone famous vouching for a 3D printer. But that’s exactly what’s going on with a new deal between comedian and TV personality Jay Leno and Stratasys. The deal gives Leno and his Big Dog Garage access to the Stratasys FDM 3D printers, helping to keep the 286 classic cars and motorcycles working properly.

What this means for Jay Leno and his employees is they’ll have access to the latest additive manufacturing tech Stratasys has to offer. If you’ve been a faithful watcher of Jay Leno’s Garage from the beginning, then you’ve known Leno has been using 3D printing to create replacements parts for some of his rarest vehicles.

Additive manufacturing is becoming more of a force in the classic car community. Plenty of enthusiasts who own especially rare models find themselves in the unfortunate situation of needing a part to keep their vehicle running or to make different parts of it work correctly, but there are no replacements available anywhere, including through salvage yards. Printing one of these parts is literally the only way around the problem.

Now Jay Leno and his Big Dog Garage employees have access to the Fortus 450mc 3D Printer. The machine uses FDM Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber to create finished components which are both lightweight and strong.

“After working with Stratasys and Stratasys Direct for years to drive the ultimate in 3D printing innovation, I’m really excited about this new Fortus machine and where it takes us next,” said Leno.

While 3D printing is helping Leno and others print parts for their cars, cost keeps it from becoming a widespread practice for now. In other words, it’s a tool for the well-heeled at the moment, but one day it could become affordable for the masses.  

This move is part of Stratasys’ Performance Partner Program which started in October. It focuses on working with influential people in the classic car and auto racing segments, among others.