I made a booboo. The pics above are not a sand casted cover. It is actually the master (some sort of poly resin), which is used for sand casting the covers.
Guess I just got excited.
This is what would be used if I was only making a small run. But when making runs of 50 or more units, mold plates are usually used because they produce a superior cast. The reason they don't use plates for short runs is the high cost of producing them, which would be prohibitive. Sand cast are also used when a manufacturer is trying to hold cost down, which I could have opted for, but I insisted on a high quality piece.
The only reason a master is needed, is so they can produce one or two sand casted covers (@ $200 each). The sand casted units are machined and will be used to verify the pattern is correct, before spending several thousands of dollars on the plates. Of course, this was an option too, but I chose to do so. Better to be safe than sorry.
Once I approve the casted units, the pattern will be sent to the plate manufacturer. I can then use the casted covers for experimenting with different finishes. One of them will be fully polished and photographed, so the pics can be published in Mustangs & Fords "New Product" section, thanks to Jim Smart. 8) Not sure what I'll do with the other one, but will probably have it Hypercoated in gold or powder coated in black.
Then, it has been suggested I put one of them up for auction on E-Bay, as it may become a collectors piece some day (first run - one of a kind). Personally, I doubt it, but one never knows. It will be engraved on the inside with the production date and number (#1) and the FSPP logo. The other one I will keep for upcoming shows this summer.
I'll set up something on the website for pre-orders, with the option for making a small deposit. The first run will be 100 pieces, but I may order more if there is enough demand, and if it will help lower the end price.
As soon as my cash flow recovers, I'll start work on a matching air cleaner top with ribs. Bases are readily availalble, for 1V, 2V and 4V if I keep it round, but I may choose an oval design? 8)