crashtech
Combo Man & Mod
My take on the issue is that a large part of the classic car parts business is made up of DIYers, who would be first and foremost concerned with price. So it doesn't make sense for manufacturers of these parts to invest a lot in making the parts perfect, since to do so would make them cost a lot more, especially at first. Professionals would probably prefer to pay a large premium for parts that are exact fit (I would) and the technology exists to make them, but the market would be too small and risky to make the large tooling investment.
As far as OEMs selling their original tooling, I've heard that story since the 80's, but have seen no evidence whatsoever that it's true. In my opinion, OEs would rather scrap their dies than let anyone make money off of them.
As far as OEMs selling their original tooling, I've heard that story since the 80's, but have seen no evidence whatsoever that it's true. In my opinion, OEs would rather scrap their dies than let anyone make money off of them.