Scale models and automotive enthusiasm have gone hand-in-hand since the earliest Hot Rod days. In modern times, you'll find countless ways to indulge in these tiny replicas that often end up next to your monitor or on a shelf for display. Few, however, are as detailed and on-brand as the 1:4 scale 3D printed masterpieces coming from DBS Works.
The New Kid
The brand's creator and owner, Diego, is based in Madrid, Spain, and has experienced a meteoric rise through the social media ranks as images of his incredibly detailed engines are constantly being shared. Some are standard replicas of mostly Honda engines (with a few Nissan and Toyota versions offered as well), while others are one-off customs requested by eager customers looking for something unique to match their personal projects.
Based on the level of precision, we expected a team of artists, or, at the very least, a group of savvy 3D printing gurus to be at the core of DBS Works. What we found is that it's just one guy using self-taught skills to supply a growing demand using a process that offers incredible freedom yet robs precious hours with lengthy procedures.
"I don't have any experience in 3D printing or 3D modeling," Diego states. "I was into 1:24 scale model cars, which you have to assemble and paint yourself, and I saw some awesome 3D prints that people made for their cars. I loved to paint the little engines that come with those kits and seeing the capabilities of a 3D printer, I thought it might be possible to make a larger scale engine to display on its own"
Self-Taught Mastery
Diego purchased his first 3D printer and began his own research into basic C.A.D. 3D modeling. Feeling like he had enough knowledge to start printing something on his own, he began with a Honda K20A—a favorite of his as it was the same engine that powered his Civic Type R. He adds, "I just wanted a cool model of a K20A to sit on my desk and I created an Instagram account to share pictures of it." A large account on Instagram took notice and shared some of his images and overnight, it became a hit with a long list of interested enthusiasts messaging and asking, "how much?"
Seeing a demand for his custom models, Diego decided to try making them for the masses. "I was a little overwhelmed but after a bit of thinking, I decided to start selling them. I only intended to make the K20, but since I enjoyed making it so much, I decided to try making a Honda B-series, and then a Nissan RB26DETT. Seeing that so many people liked it and I got so many requests, I decided to continue making the engines I liked most—which are mostly Honda engines except for the Toyota 2JZGTE and RB26."
The process starts with a C.A.D. 3D model image and makes its way to Diego's printer shortly after, but the production itself isn't a quick one. He notes, "Printing time on average is about 80 hours. Then I must assemble, paint, and pack the item for shipping. 3D printing is amazing because you can see your ideas turned into reality within hours, but it's not the fastest technology from a [mass] production perspective." Custom parts required for customers that want a specific style or replica of their personal set up require additional 3D modeling time and assembly is typically more involved than a standard kit.
Pulling Double Duty
Even with the long-winded 3D printing process, Diego has managed to stay in front of the orders he has coming in and offers a reasonable lead time, though he mentions that it's been impossible to produce some additional stock to speed up orders. We should add that all of this is done while he still maintains his regular full-time job. DBS Works remains a side project and leaves very little free time for Diego. "I'm ok with this being a hobby/business and I will continue making these as long as I feel motivated and keep enjoying the process."
The engine models are available fully assembled and ready for display or as a DIY kit, handing off the assembly and painting duties to the customer. Either way, the finished product is remarkably accurate, with casting lines, a water pump housing carved into place, intake and exhaust manifolds included and more. Even the crank pulley, flywheel, timing chain tensioner, and injectors are all separate pieces rather than a "blob" of plastic like other scale models you might have encountered.
Rolling Out Something New
Along with the engines being offered, Diego also began producing single piece, 1:5 scale collectable wheels with display cases featuring the Mugen M7, MF10, MR5, NR10R, and RnR. "I thought it would be cool to make small replicas of highly collectible Mugen wheels. They've been rising in price in recent years and have become something of an iconic object from the '80s and '90s JDM era." In addition, he's also introduced other wheels, including Volk's legendary TE37 and Spoon's SW388.
Along with fulfilling standard and custom engine and wheel orders, Diego is also working on creating scaled versions of popular valve covers as collectables that he'd like to offer. He of course has the 3D modeling completed already but is still working out the overall sizing and display details. Just another step for the guy that stumbled into a new hobby which in turn blossomed into a full-blown business that has enthusiasts around the world talking.
If you're interested in ordering one of Diego's unique creations, you can reach him on his DBS Works Instagram account.
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February 16, 2022 at 05:15PM
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Tiny 3D-Printed Engines Are Stunning Motor Masterpieces - Motor Trend
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