[techhelpbb]

Perhaps get a RepRap style kit and do it like that or find someone with RepRap style printer(s).
The odds of cheaply repairing a RepRap over a MakerBot seem higher to me.
So if you wear the printer out you just fix it.

This is why I have a SoliDoodle2 and an Up! printer.
I let the SoliDoodle do stuff like this.
If the SoliDoodle breaks it's cheaper to fix.

It's true the Up! printer is more 'plug-and-play' than the SoliDoodle 2.
However if you're going to do a lot of repetition you'll be able to work out the details more easily.

If I had to turn low level production from 3D printers I'd rather have 3 moderately reliable decent printers.
Than 1 really reliable great printer.

For example it's entirely possible to get a moderately reliable 3D printer for $700 with S/H versus one
MakerBot Replicator 2 for $2,200-$2,800.
Fairness given that some teams are getting the MakerBots at *much* less cost than list price.
Have to wonder what cheaper printers might also be able to work a FIRST related discount.

Then again there's the challenge of building your own 3D printer with the help of the 3D printer you already have.
Printing the parts for more printers should be a piece of cake for a Replicator and then let those printers take the wear.

I know several companies that will 3D print for you but the cost will be higher than merely the cost of the materials.
In fairness it ought to be.
They are wearing their printers, using their heat and time.
The true cost of a 3D print is higher than most people think.