I know this thread is old, but have you guys considered talking to any parts vendors or local shops about advertising on the site? There's a whole list of these guys on here being promoted for free in the "good guys" thread! Maybe arranange for a sponsor to have a banner on the homepage? If you could get a few people willing to pay for advertising it would help cover costs. Just an idea if it hasn't been tried yet.
I have thought about it, quite a bit. My plan is to do limited advertising, including Andrews business, and as you say some others. I have also talked with some other owners about sharing links to cross advertise our site. At the moment, I have not figured out how to add in advertising. My web guru is a busy guy and I plan on sitting down with him to discuss this.
My intention would not be to get rich, but rather draw in more members. Thus, I would not add anything that would take away from the performance, nor the simplicity. Therefore it must be a careful balance. Thanks for the input and certainly if you have an specifics either post them up here, or PM me with them.
Adam