Do any programs exist that allow you to build your own LEGO manuals? What I'm looking for is a program or website/webapp that allows "virtual" building of a LEGO model, step-by-step, and allows you to save these single steps to get a complete building plan in the end. Like the original manuals, this should include:


An image of each step
A list of pieces needed for each step
Optionally "detailed" views for very tricky parts
Possibility to download/save or link to a plan (as PDF, for example)
The Lego Digital Designer is ideal for this job. Avalible for Mac and PC it allows you to build models from scatch, order them, and get them delivered. Or, if you've got the bits already it can make instructions for you. It has a range of technic items (see image below).



Importing a model will also enable you to view the part number and details which could be very useful for finding out exact pieces/parts.