FAQ
Practical answers before you send the part.
Coast Dynamix is based in Fort Lauderdale and takes reverse-engineering jobs from across the U.S. Here’s how deliverables, on-site work, files, and timelines usually work.
- What do you actually deliver — files, finished parts, or both?
- Coast Dynamix leads reverse engineering and CAD, then — when fabrication is in the quote — coordinates manufacturing through qualified partners and delivers finished components. Optional on-vessel or yard installation can be included when quoted. Scope is always defined in writing; we do not assume every project includes production metal.
- What file formats do you deliver?
- Typically a manufacturing-ready 3D CAD model as STEP, plus PDF or shop drawings when those are in the quote. Other formats can be confirmed during intake. Exact deliverables are listed on your written quote.
- Do I need to send my part in, or can you come on-site?
- Many projects start from clear photos and measurements. You can also send the failed or sample part to our Fort Lauderdale hub. For South Florida work we can often meet for measurement or handoff. For larger jobs we can travel to the vessel or yard when it makes sense. Vessel-down and international work — including the Bahamas — is evaluated case by case.
- Do you only work in Florida?
- No. Coast Dynamix is based in Fort Lauderdale, but we take jobs from across the continental United States. Customers commonly send photos or the part itself. Travel for larger jobs and international / vessel-down support are evaluated individually.
- What's the difference between a mesh/scan file and a CAD file?
- A mesh or scan is a dense surface snapshot of what was measured — useful reference, but usually not what a shop machines from. CAD is editable, manufacturable geometry with clear interfaces, dimensions, and design intent. We reverse engineer into CAD so the part can be reviewed, revised, and produced. Specialized 3D scanning, when needed, is coordinated through qualified partners — not as an in-house Coast Dynamix lab.
- Can I send scan data or CAD I already have?
- Yes. Existing scans, STEP files, drawings, or OEM leftovers often speed the project. We still review fit, interfaces, and manufacturability before quoting production. If the scan is only a mesh, we typically still need a CAD reconstruction for manufacturing.
- How much does reverse engineering cost, and what if I need changes?
- Pricing is quote-based — it depends on complexity, available inputs, materials, quantity, and whether finished parts and installation are included. After you send photos or intake details, we outline next steps and a written quote. Changes after work starts are handled as scope updates; deposits applied to custom work are generally non-refundable once engineering or fabrication has begun, as stated in the quote terms.
- How long does a project take?
- Simple documented replacements can move in days to a couple of weeks once inputs and deposit are in place. Complex geometry, partner scanning, material analysis, or production machining takes longer. Vessel-down jobs are prioritized for practical next steps, but we do not promise fixed lead times until the quote is written for your specific part.
- Who keeps the CAD files when the project is complete?
- Unless otherwise agreed in writing, you receive the project deliverables (such as STEP and drawings listed on the quote) for use on that project. Coast Dynamix retains rights to general methods, know-how, and reusable design patterns. Project information and vessel identities are treated as confidential; NDAs can be accommodated on request.
- Do you machine parts in-house?
- Machining and fabrication are coordinated through qualified manufacturing partners selected for the part, material, and timeline. Coast Dynamix leads engineering, documentation, and production coordination through to finished parts when manufacturing is in scope.
Still stuck on one part?
Send a few photos of the broken or unavailable component and we'll tell you the practical next step — files only, finished parts, or on-site support.
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