A method and apparatus for forming a tool. A layer is conformed to a reference part. The layer having an adhesive side that faces outward from the reference part and a release side that faces the reference part. A plurality of prefabricated sections is adhered to the layer. A plurality of gaps is filled between the plurality of prefabricated sections with a joining material.

A heavy-duty vehicle maintenance tool applicable to mount or remove a component from a gearbox has a cylindrical shape with a predetermined extension along a central axis. The tool further including a cylindrical wall enclosing an inner cylindrical cavity and connecting an open first end and a closed second end. The tool has a first end arranged to be placed in contact with a corresponding surface on a component to be mounted and a second end arranged to be subjected to an external force in order to mount or remove the component. The second end includes an internal reinforcing lattice structure within the cavity. The tool is a lightweight, one-piece thermoplastic component and is produced using an additive manufacturing process.

A method is provided for forming one or more gripper heads to be used with a gripping apparatus. The method includes obtaining 3D data based on a geometry of a component. The method also includes forming one gripper head comprising 3D printing the gripper head based on the obtained 3D data. The forming step includes forming one or more openings in the gripper head and forming a nest of the gripper head to locate and releasably hold the component based on suction being applied through the one or more openings.