I think we've ruled out any sort of chat/messaging/shout type feature. A few of the guys run a chat service every now and then, but it just doesnMt stay busy enough to stay open more than a few days. Plus we also have several threads that are specifically for your random thoughts, much like what a shout box would accomplish.
I have been a member of an ATV forum for along time, it is a pretty active forum with a chat box. I think someone posts "goodnight" in there every once in a while.
it can be handy for giving tech advice real quick, but I would guess it takes up more recources than it would be worth...