Sarkov - I agree, neither of us can foresee exactly what will happen if this was implemented. However I don't see a problem with at least trying it out. The main issue at hand here is the fact that server chat is just too much of a catch-all, and it can be tough for people looking for more esoteric class discussions to wade through all those posts.
For instance, this is what I got when I searched for "Ranger Gear"
http://www.project1999.org/forums/se...earchid=283229
I just don't think the search function is the answer here.