NFI Empire Custom Car Parts Fabrication

We’re excited to share one of our most unique collaborations between Gannon University’s MakerSpace and NFI Empire in North East, Pennsylvania. Together, we worked to restore a 1932 Ford Highboy Roadster, a classic car that combined history, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology in one inspiring project.

The project began when NFI Empire set out to completely restore the vintage Ford in just 30 days. The restored car would later be auctioned at country star Luke Bryan’s estate to raise money for the Brett Boyer Foundation, which supports research and treatment for coronary heart disease. When NFI needed custom, high-quality parts made specifically for the vehicle, they turned to Gannon University’s MakerSpace for help.

Inside Gannon’s state-of-the-art MakerSpace at I-HACK, a team of engineers and designers used advanced 3D printing and machining tools to bring the Roadster back to life. We designed and manufactured a series of custom parts, including a metal-printed gear shifter, hood ornament, horn button, and a special nameplate for the car. Each piece was made with precision and creativity, ensuring it matched the car’s original style while adding a modern touch.

The MakerSpace team used both metal and nylon 3D printers, along with other fabrication tools, to create the parts from scratch. To make the project even more special, we engraved the Brett Boyer Foundation’s logo onto several of the pieces using a stainless-steel powder process. This gave each part a detailed, high-resolution finish, making the restored Ford completely one-of-a-kind.

The design process began with detailed CAD modeling to ensure every part fit perfectly within the vehicle’s design. Our team tested, adjusted, and fine-tuned models before final printing to guarantee accuracy and durability. Material choice was also key as each component had to withstand the heat, vibration, and movement typical of a classic car.

Throughout the fabrication process, MakerSpace equipment such as CNC machines, welders, and precision measurement tools were used to achieve the highest quality. Every piece went through careful quality checks before being approved for installation. Despite tight deadlines and complex design challenges, the MakerSpace successfully produced all parts on time.

When the parts were finally installed, the results spoke for themselves. The restored Ford Highboy Roadster not only looked stunning but performed flawlessly. The car sold for an impressive $366,000 at the auction, helping raise significant funds for the Brett Boyer Foundation.

This project marked the first time NFI Empire and Gannon University MakerSpace collaborated on 3D-printed automotive restoration. Justin Fried, CEO of NFI Empire, said he hopes this partnership will inspire more innovation in Erie’s manufacturing community, showing how modern technology like 3D printing can bring new energy to traditional industries. At MakerSpace, projects like this highlight the real-world impact of advanced fabrication and digital design. The collaboration between the MakerSpace and NFI Empire shows how engineering, creativity, and technology can come together to preserve history, inspire innovation, and create something truly remarkable.