Another Donkey Kong Scratch build - 8/31/10 - FIXED VIDEO OBJECT

[sk8ersublime]

Hey everyone,

Today I went to the hardware store and bought my 5/8'' wood for my side panels, I have a couple of questions about the jakobud.com plans. I may need someone with a DK cab to help me out. First here is a pic of what I have drawn on the wood so far, its the only pic I have and my phone died right when i took it.


ok so my question is, from just the side panel without the base, i feel like the control panel is VERY low, and also, the horizontal line in the top right of my 1st pic, is how tall i am.  Im taller than this cab? The measurement i got from back corner to top corner is 65.5''.

As for the control panel, could someone with a cab maybe measure from the bottom of the side panel to the top of control panel? or explain to me why it feels like this? I believe for the most part my cab follows the plans, except for maybe a bit off at the top (near the marquee)

Thoughts? Ideas?

Thanks for looking

[Ginsu Victim]

First off, don't trust the Jakobud plans and don't trust the pic you compared it to.

Second, Nintendo cabs are shorter than most.

[sk8ersublime]

First off, don't trust the Jakobud plans and don't trust the pic you compared it to.

Second, Nintendo cabs are shorter than most.

Well i went with the plans because of this guys blog

http://donkeykongarcade.blogspot.com/

his turned out really good, and he used the plans.

I just played on a DK machine this past weekend and i dont remember it being that short. but maybe...

[javeryh]

I'm taller than my DK cab.

[sk8ersublime]

I'm taller than my DK cab.

how tall are you? Im 5' 11''. Idk, im prolly just worried for no reason....i just want it to be close as possible to a real size one.

[versapak]

The cab itself is only 66.5 inches tall.

The top surface of the front of the control panel is about 34.75 inches from the ground.



[EDIT]

That is from my original Popeye, though I assume that they are exactly the same.

[sk8ersublime]

The cab itself is only 66.5 inches tall.

The top surface of the front of the control panel is about 34.75 inches from the ground.



[EDIT]

That is from my original Popeye, though I assume that they are exactly the same.

Thanks, this will help!

[garnerb350]

Did you take into account the base? how much taller would it make it then?

I hate to say and no disrespect to others...I agree with Ginsu...Its hard for me to trust those measurements...
Call me dumb or lazy, but I wish i could see measurements for EACH indivdual piece...A-Z...make things alot easy and simpler...
I'm eventually wanting to make a DK cab myself...and you are going through one of my fears on that build...Good luck...

[Ginsu Victim]

I hate to say and no disrespect to others...I agree with Ginsu

Is it such a bad thing to agree with me?

[sk8ersublime]

Did you take into account the base? how much taller would it make it then?

I wish i could see measurements for EACH indivdual piece...A-Z...make things alot easy and simpler...

I agree with this, but unfortunately this is what we have

those plans say the base 1.125'' higher, i tried adjusting my hands trying to imagine it, i couldnt get a good feel tho.

i think it will turn out ok, i just need to take my time, im going to Rockville tomorrow and there is a Dave n Busters there with a DK/Mario machine, im gonna take a tape measure

Only thing that sucks is i am building this cab at my grandpa's workshop, but he lives like 30-45 mins from me, so I do not have direct access to it so whatever i think about doing, i have to wait until i get up there again

as for agreeing with Ginsu.... haha idk....he HAS answered almost everything ive posted so far on here...lol...Thanks!  

[Ginsu Victim]

i think it will turn out ok, i just need to take my time, im going to Rockville tomorrow and there is a Dave n Busters there with a DK/Mario machine, im gonna take a tape measure

Just a warning:

If this link is accurate, that new machine is only 62" tall.
http://www.primetimeamusements.com/arcadegame.php?id=192

There is also a 58" cabaret model out there, as well.

[javeryh]

i think it will turn out ok, i just need to take my time, im going to Rockville tomorrow and there is a Dave n Busters there with a DK/Mario machine, im gonna take a tape measure

Just a warning:

If this link is accurate, that new machine is only 62" tall.
http://www.primetimeamusements.com/arcadegame.php?id=192

There is also a 58" cabaret model out there, as well.

It also clearly does not have a base.

I'm 6' and I'm actually a lot taller than the cabinet (without getting on my toes I can easily see the top panel).  I can take some measurements when I get home later but if I remember correctly, the base is 3.5" high but it is hidden by the side panel by about an inch.  Other than height, I'd be more concerned with all of the curves in the profile.

[Ginsu Victim]

I guess I don't know this base you're talking about.

[javeryh]

I guess I don't know this base you're talking about.

Check it out:

[Ginsu Victim]

Ahhhhh....gotcha

[sk8ersublime]

Yea the curves I would like to have as close to the original as possible, but idk if its possible with these plans to make the curves unless i just dont know how to read them.  I tried measuring out everything, but i got to the point where i didnt know how far to go in and up, so i just said screw it and tried to eye it from the plan/pic.  I will spend hours touching up my sketch before i cut.

the base part i was talking about being 1.125'' is just the part sticking out from under

[garnerb350]

Is it such a bad thing to agree with me?

When i meant no disrepect, I was refering to jakobud...
The base i was talking bout was the black bottom...


( seeing the photos that sk8ter had, I wasnt for sure if he realized about the base adding height)

I learned from the getgo since i started here, I've always respected Ginsu...(love ya too man!) LOL

Out of the bottom of my heart Sk8ter, PLEASE keep a record of what measurements and cuts you made/make...it would be a BIG contribution to the rest of the builders out here...Wood costs too much these days...at least in my neck of the woods that is...

[Ginsu Victim]

I learned from the getgo since i started here, I've always respected Ginsu...(love ya too man!) LOL

Cheers. Just for that, here's a new version of your avatar I made recently.

[sk8ersublime]

Is it such a bad thing to agree with me?

When i meant no disrepect, I was refering to jakobud...
The base i was talking bout was the black bottom...


( seeing the photos that sk8ter had, I wasnt for sure if he realized about the base adding height)

I learned from the getgo since i started here, I've always respected Ginsu...(love ya too man!) LOL

Out of the bottom of my heart Sk8ter, PLEASE keep a record of what measurements and cuts you made/make...it would be a BIG contribution to the rest of the builders out here...Wood costs too much these days...at least in my neck of the woods that is...

I will try, i dont know if you will be able to trust my measurements! haha.  But Ill try keep track of my final lines.

Yea and wood is pretty pricey. and 5/8 seems hard to find. I used particle board for my current cab, but i used 3/4''. Its freaking heavy.  For this DK build i got 5/8 particle board, and with my grandpa's military discount at Lowes, it only cost $40 for (2) 4x8 sheets and a flush cut router bit

[garnerb350]

Thats a good discount...3/4 plywood (1 sheet) in NC last i checked last year (when i built my cab) was 46 bucks...I think MDF is 10 bucks cheaper...Having to buy pull-ups for a toddler and a wife who loves shoes kind of puts a bind on the wallet situation... 

[sk8ersublime]

So it turns out the wood i bought was so cheap because, they only charged me for one sheet....just saw the receipt. oops.

anyway, I went to Dave n Busters this afternoon and measured the DK/JR/Mario cab. I saw a few guys working on a machine, and I asked them if they have anything broken sitting in the back that I could possible get a hold of, they said no, and that they get their stuff from some place in baltimore.  Also, I mentioned that I was gonna build a DK cab and the response i got was "WHY DONT YOU JUST BUY ONE??!?!?!" and I said, Because its more fun to build something 

Here is what i measured. It may be off a few 1/16 of a inch, but should help me get closer than just using the plans.

The Side



The Front



So the Cabinet is 66+ inches, good to know. and the panel is about 34''.  Pretty much right on with that Popeye cab you were telling me about earlier  

anyway, i took measurements right where the lines start to curve so i can get an idea of how steep it needs to be, and the depth of the cab. Maybe this for the time being will help someone...idk. just thought i would post.

Also, how is the cabinet held together? my current cab i have it held together with 2x3s on in the side, drilled from the outside, with long wood screws that are exposed, and this is not what I am looking to do for this one.

Someone want to take a pic of the supports the sides? I hope to get 2 sides cut tonight! maybe.....

[sk8ersublime]

oops- double

[garnerb350]

Hahaha...Yeah I had people tell me the same thing...and I always say, "WTH do you expect me to buy a DK around here?!"...and they reply "I see your point"

[Ginsu Victim]

Man, I could've had a non-working but otherwise excellent DK for $100, but didn't have the room for it. 

[sk8ersublime]

Man, I could've had a non-working but otherwise excellent DK for $100, but didn't have the room for it. 

That sucks. I would prolly buy one if i could get one in my area for $100. But i do enjoy a project

[javeryh]

I paid $36 for mine - and it came with the coin door and mechs!  Luckiest find ever.

[sk8ersublime]

I paid $36 for mine - and it came with the coin door and mechs!  Luckiest find ever.

Could you maybe send me some pics of what holds the sides and other panels together from your cabinet?

[javeryh]

I paid $36 for mine - and it came with the coin door and mechs!  Luckiest find ever.

Could you maybe send me some pics of what holds the sides and other panels together from your cabinet?

Here are some pics of the inside:



It is in my dining room and up against the wall so I can't really take any new pictures (the cab is finished).   

[sk8ersublime]

Yea i hope to have a finished cab soon...at least in the next month or so....i am jealous of your finished cab.... lol

Anyway, I got a lot done last night!

I cut the side panels and I routed the slot for the T molding, which went ok until for whatever reason the height of the blade dropped while i was cutting which mis-aligned my slot , i fixed the height and went back over it which of course made the slot to big, but ill fill it in with some putty when i goto put the molding on, im sure it will be fine, ill find a way to make it work. I have never used a router before, so I tested the blade on some scrap wood, and thought i would be fine.  But After that first side panel that was screwed up, the 2nd one was perfect. Oh and I had to use my jigsaw anyway for the side panels, the flush trim bit i bought was too thick for my router (that's what she said) So after I used the jigsaw i found a finishing sander that looked like it was from the 50s that my grandpa had, and it cleaned everything up really nice!

Here are a few pics.







Just testing the T-molding ^

I cant wait til I have these sides put together and have a standing frame! The only thing that is gonna be a pain in the ass from here out is the speaker panel, at least for the outside pieces....then comes all the monitor trouble which I havent decided if ill keep my 19'' LCD for this, or if I will get a CRT....low power consumption is always a plus....but i dont know which way im leaning yet.

[javeryh]

Looks like a good start.  It worries me that the slot cutter dropped on your router mid cut.  that should NOT happen and could be VERY dangerous.  Next time triple check ALL of the locks on your router before cutting - everything should be very tight and nothing should move other than the motor while you are cutting.  I'd hate for you to cut yourself or worse.

My DK took me about 4-5 months to finish working sporadically on the weekends only and not every weekend - like maybe 3 or 4 of them when the wife and kids were at the beach.  The bulk of the work for me was stripping the side art, sanding and painting - I'm sure you have more work since you are starting with nothing! 

[sk8ersublime]

Yea idk what happened. Everything was tight when I started. It wasn't the bit that went down but the router is and old craftsman, you have to twist the housing to adjust the height...and I did notice the housing move a bit while I was routing. I've never used a router other than this, so idk. After that issue I re tightened everything and the 2nd panel was perfect.

I still need to get a good idea for mounting the sides to the floor of the cab. I want a standing cab!!! Lol all in time I suppose.

[sk8ersublime]

I did some more work today, got the cab standing! with a base!

I didnt want to screw it together from the outside, but i went ahead and did that, im gonna cover the screws with putty or something when i get to that part. Or ill take them out once i figure out how to mount everything inside.

And compared to a pic of a real machine, the only problem I see is the front panel its too deep into the cabinet, but that is an easy fix.

Here are the pics.







Its coming together pretty nice...so far, so good.

[severdhed]

looking good.  this makes me really want to get my DK cabinet finished.  I got mine for $50 last fall, but my wife told me i wasn't allowed to put any money into it until after Christmas.  I had everything i needed to get it playable, but there is alot of cosmetic stuff that needs done to it.  and now we are in the middle of remodeling our kitchen and dining room, so it will probably be spring until i can start mine.  I haven't been on the forums alot lately due to the remodeling, but if you need any measurements or anything, i'll try to help out as well.

good luck and keep those pics coming.

[sk8ersublime]

looking good.  this makes me really want to get my DK cabinet finished.  I got mine for $50 last fall, but my wife told me i wasn't allowed to put any money into it until after Christmas.  I had everything i needed to get it playable, but there is alot of cosmetic stuff that needs done to it.  and now we are in the middle of remodeling our kitchen and dining room, so it will probably be spring until i can start mine.  I haven't been on the forums alot lately due to the remodeling, but if you need any measurements or anything, i'll try to help out as well.

good luck and keep those pics coming.

Thanks! Right now I need to get my bezel and Marquee.  I need to make sure they will fit in my cab, if not, ill have to re-cut the top bottom and coin door panel :\

Anyone know where to get a Bezel for a decent price? I found one place online for 45, but i need to call them and make sure its on plexi because every other place I find it, if its on plexi its like $80-90

[garnerb350]

Thanks! Right now I need to get my bezel and Marquee....
Anyone know where to get a Bezel for a decent price?

Dont get ahead of your self yet...Remember you are building a stratch built...something might come up to where the measurements are off...
See what the measurements are for the DK cab and cut out cardboard or (something cheap) and use them as a test pieces...if then if they are good then worry bout getting the actual bezel/marquee....

Another thing too if you want...it might be cheaper...but you can find the artwork for the DK cab...you can then take it and get the artwork printed and then you can apply it on pexi, glass, etc, whatever you choose...

http://arcarc.xmission.com/Web%20Archives/vectorlib.free.fr/DonkeyKong/index.html

[mr_doles]

I found one place online for 45, but i need to call them and make sure its on plexi because every other place I find it, if its on plexi its like $80-90

Let me know what you find out about that.  I was looking at an online place at $45 as well and was wondering about that too.

[javeryh]

Anyone know where to get a Bezel for a decent price? I found one place online for 45, but i need to call them and make sure its on plexi because every other place I find it, if its on plexi its like $80-90

Arcade Shop has it for $45 and it is great - that's where I got mine.   

You are making real good progress on the cab - getting it 3D is a big milestone - now you actually have something to work on instead of random pieces laying about the shop.   

[sk8ersublime]

Anyone know where to get a Bezel for a decent price? I found one place online for 45, but i need to call them and make sure its on plexi because every other place I find it, if its on plexi its like $80-90

Arcade Shop has it for $45 and it is great - that's where I got mine.   

You are making real good progress on the cab - getting it 3D is a big milestone - now you actually have something to work on instead of random pieces laying about the shop.   

Haha...its the only thing i think about...

Im a HUGE hockey fan, and yesterday I listened to the gold medal game on the radio while I was in the workshop working on the cab.... instead of watching it...Idk if I would have done that for a Caps game...but im really excited about getting this thing up and running, hoping that I can start painting or at least prepping for paint in the next few weeks.

Also, do you have to order over the phone from them? Thats where i found it last night, and I was just about to call him.

This is what I am afraid of, and right now, im at a point where I can easily make some new bottom and top pieces if the bezel wont fit.

Thanks! Right now I need to get my bezel and Marquee....
Anyone know where to get a Bezel for a decent price?

Dont get ahead of your self yet...Remember you are building a stratch built...something might come up to where the measurements are off...
See what the measurements are for the DK cab and cut out cardboard or (something cheap) and use them as a test pieces...if then if they are good then worry bout getting the actual bezel/marquee....

Another thing too if you want...it might be cheaper...but you can find the artwork for the DK cab...you can then take it and get the artwork printed and then you can apply it on pexi, glass, etc, whatever you choose...

http://arcarc.xmission.com/Web%20Archives/vectorlib.free.fr/DonkeyKong/index.html

[sk8ersublime]

nm, just called a ordered The Bezel, Bezel under decal, and the Coin decal $64 shipped! Awesome place! 

Now here are my thoughts for the Control Panel...

I dont know if I am going to build one... I am thinking about just buying a control panel from Mike's arcade, its only $85. I figure that after i buy the joysticks, strikes, and the artwork, plexi, and prolly screw it up it will be easier and cheaper to just buy one...haha

But I do plan on building my own custom 2 player panel that I will be able to swap out with this one

[javeryh]

nm, just called a ordered The Bezel, Bezel under decal, and the Coin decal $64 shipped! Awesome place! 

Now here are my thoughts for the Control Panel...

I dont know if I am going to build one... I am thinking about just buying a control panel from Mike's arcade, its only $85. I figure that after i buy the joysticks, strikes, and the artwork, plexi, and prolly screw it up it will be easier and cheaper to just buy one...haha

But I do plan on building my own custom 2 player panel that I will be able to swap out with this one

Arcade Shop is GREAT.  You will not be disappointed.  You are right about the control panel - it is almost a wash to order all of the parts separately and build it yourself.  Note that the $85 CP doesn't have a Nintendo stick installed - it is way more money otherwise.  I love the feel of JLFs and I wanted the challenge of building the CP myself so that's the route I went.  I love the way it came out so I have no regrets although there were a few times I was wishing I had just ordered the thing!

[sk8ersublime]

nm, just called a ordered The Bezel, Bezel under decal, and the Coin decal $64 shipped! Awesome place! 

Now here are my thoughts for the Control Panel...

I dont know if I am going to build one... I am thinking about just buying a control panel from Mike's arcade, its only $85. I figure that after i buy the joysticks, strikes, and the artwork, plexi, and prolly screw it up it will be easier and cheaper to just buy one...haha

But I do plan on building my own custom 2 player panel that I will be able to swap out with this one

Arcade Shop is GREAT.  You will not be disappointed.  You are right about the control panel - it is almost a wash to order all of the parts separately and build it yourself.  Note that the $85 CP doesn't have a Nintendo stick installed - it is way more money otherwise.  I love the feel of JLFs and I wanted the challenge of building the CP myself so that's the route I went.  I love the way it came out so I have no regrets although there were a few times I was wishing I had just ordered the thing!

Yea im not too worried about the nintendo stick, its something i can always add later, Quarter Arcade sells used ones for $20-25 something like that, so i could always go that router, hell maybe i can call and see if he will sell it to me with out the joystick for less...who knows.

[mr_doles]

That is exactally what I was planning on doing.  CP from Mikes Arcade and the Bezel plus extras from arcade shop.  Let me know how it all looks when you get it.  Where did you get the T-Molding, I was thinking about adding it to my order at one of these 2 places to keep shipping down, both have it for $10 I believe.

[sk8ersublime]

That is exactally what I was planning on doing.  CP from Mikes Arcade and the Bezel plus extras from arcade shop.  Let me know how it all looks when you get it.  Where did you get the T-Molding, I was thinking about adding it to my order at one of these 2 places to keep shipping down, both have it for $10 I believe.

i got my t-molding at t-molding.com with the router arbor and bit it was like 45 shipped. But the molding itself was like 15 I think for 20ft

[sk8ersublime]

i went to sherwin williams today to get the color matched custom paint that javeryh used.....$40 for a gallon! and they said they couldnt make it in a quart. :\ I guess ill have to take a pic or something to get color matched.

[javeryh]

i went to sherwin williams today to get the color matched custom paint that javeryh used.....$40 for a gallon! and they said they couldnt make it in a quart. :\ I guess ill have to take a pic or something to get color matched.

Yeah, the paint was expensive but I'm very happy with the end result.  The surface dried hard and seems very difficult to chip or ding.  These things are a money pit.

[sk8ersublime]

haha yea they are, but they are so worth it!

Also, I got an email back from Mike's Arcade with the size of the DK panel they sell

The panel is 22-3/8" long and 8-7/16" wide

should be fine for my cab!

And Right now mamemarquees has a few bargin bin DK marquees, and one happened to be 6x23 which should fit fine in my cab for $10!

[mr_doles]

The panel is 22-3/8" long and 8-7/16" wide

/runs and gets tape measure/
The wood on the panel is the right size as it goes under the wood monitor bezel (where the Instruction Card decal goes) but the plexi does not go under it, but rather buts up to it and is measuring at 8-3/4"...does that sound right?  Please, please, forgive me sk8ersublime for jumping in on your thread but you are doing EXACTLY what I want to do (though mine will be a DK JR) plus 2 people researching is better then one.
/runs to look at mamemarquees/

[sk8ersublime]

The panel is 22-3/8" long and 8-7/16" wide

/runs and gets tape measure/
The wood on the panel is the right size as it goes under the wood monitor bezel (where the Instruction Card decal goes) but the plexi does not go under it, but rather buts up to it and is measuring at 8-3/4"...does that sound right?  Please, please, forgive me sk8ersublime for jumping in on your thread but you are doing EXACTLY what I want to do (though mine will be a DK JR) plus 2 people researching is better then one.
/runs to look at mamemarquees/

Its fine man haha....as for the panel, im assuming that the measurements the gave me are for the wood part of the panel.  Im sure it will fit your cabinet fine since you actually have a REAL nintendo cabinet.  Im building mine from scratch so I have to worry about making crappy cuts and screwing something up.  But i think my cabinet is pretty close to spec. might be a little high with the base. But since i just bought all the front art work I should have a better idea by this weekend. I should have all the panels on, except for the Control Panel, which ill get at some point soon. 

[sk8ersublime]

I broke and went ahead and got the control panel today... Lol. By the weekend I'll have a full cab minus the bezel and marquee retainers... I might improvise as it's a bit expensive for a few strips if metal.

Could someone give me the measurements of the two pieces the control panels rest on the side? I have no info on this.

[mr_doles]

Sorry I did not get to this until now, if you dont get the info from someone by tomorrow I will take my cp off and measure mine.

[sk8ersublime]

Sorry I did not get to this until now, if you dont get the info from someone by tomorrow I will take my cp off and measure mine.

That would be awesome! I might go up to my grandpa's workshop and work on the cab tomorrow...i gotta cut that damn speaker grille out. But idk...i might wait until the weekend, since by then ill have all the artwork and the control panel with latches! and I need to go get L brackets so i can brace it together from the inside as I saw scr33n do this from the dragonslairfans board in his DK scratch rebuild. His cabinet turned out amazing!

here is the link to his build thread for anyone interested. Im glad I found it, it should help me out a lot! except its in CM not inches :\ oh well

http://www.dragonslairfans.com/smfor/index.php?PHPSESSID=329c8d841321fe1dd9460536273eaf98&topic=783.0

[sk8ersublime]

Does anyone know where I can find the bottom bezel retainer? No one seems to carry it, I can only find the Marquee top and bottom, the top bezel, and the bar, but not the one that goes on the piece of wood with the instruction sticker...

[mr_doles]

Could someone give me the measurements of the two pieces the control panels rest on the side? I have no info on this.

Posted some pictures because I was not sure what part you needed.  Are you talking about the red circle if so that is a 12/16” x 4” block or the green circle?  The green circle is measured out the best I could get it without taking it apart.  Hope that helps a little…because it wouldn’t me.

Can you snap a pic of the CP when you get it in.  Love to see what that looks like.

[sk8ersublime]

The piece that you measured is what I was looking for, anyway you could get the length of the part against the speaker grille? Im trying to get the correct angle on that piece so the control panel sits right.

Thanks for the measurements! It will help a lot! im hoping I can work today on the cab. But i might have to wait til tomorrow or friday.

My control panel should be here by friday so I should have it fit this weekend providing everything works out, But I will be posting pics of everything once i get everything

I cant wait!

[mr_doles]

I am at work right now but will look at it tonight, sorry if that delays you.  Since that piece only has 4 screws holding it in I can take it off tonight and get a full measurement for you.

[sk8ersublime]

I am at work right now but will look at it tonight, sorry if that delays you.  Since that piece only has 4 screws holding it in I can take it off tonight and get a full measurement for you.

No problem, i can wait, there is plenty other stuff i need to work on...speaker grille...and Im gonna attach everything from the inside with L brackets and take all of the screws on the outside out.

Thanks again for your help!

Where are you located? Im just wondering if anyone reading this is local to me (Frederick MD, Local to Washington DC\Baltimore area)

[sk8ersublime]

A LOT of work done today.  I took all the screws I put through the sides out and i assembled the cabinet with L brackets...its pretty sturdy, need support in the middle still, this will come when i get to the monitor part of my build.  Also, i remounted the Front panel, i dont think im gonna put a coin door on this machine, at least not right away, if I do i would like to get a nintendo coin door, but adding a coin door later will be simple.  If i want it to look like it has one, maybe ill paint a black square!!! haha! but anyway...

I also cut the speaker panel, it turned out ok, not as good as i would like, but its decent and still needs to be touched up a bit. And I added the spot for the Marquee, which the bottom part of the light box I might have to make a bit longer, but again, simple process. And I put wheels on the back, but I may need to get the next size up, because right now i really have to tilt it back to get it moving. these are 2'' casters.

Oh and mikesarcade gave me $5 bucks back today on my purchase for the CP and latches

Here are the Pics.





















Thoughts and comment!? Im getting excited

[mr_doles]

I am in Spartanburg, SC.
Here is the measurments that I promised you.
Why the $5 back, do I need to place an order right now?
That is looking real nice.

[mr_doles]

Also don't know if this will make a differance or not but a guy on my thread said the DKJ was smaller then the DK and mine is (I think) a DKJ.

[sk8ersublime]

Also don't know if this will make a differance or not but a guy on my thread said the DKJ was smaller then the DK and mine is (I think) a DKJ.

Thanks for the measurements! Yea im not sure about the sizes, But im willing to bet that the angle of the panel is the same, and thats all im worried about for that piece.

Thanks again!

Oh i got the $5 back for shipping charges i guess

[severdhed]

Does anyone know where I can find the bottom bezel retainer? No one seems to carry it, I can only find the Marquee top and bottom, the top bezel, and the bar, but not the one that goes on the piece of wood with the instruction sticker...

my DK does not have a bottom bezel retainer..  there is a groove cut in that piece of wood with the instruction sticker, the bezel sits down inside that groove.

[sk8ersublime]

Does anyone know where I can find the bottom bezel retainer? No one seems to carry it, I can only find the Marquee top and bottom, the top bezel, and the bar, but not the one that goes on the piece of wood with the instruction sticker...

my DK does not have a bottom bezel retainer..  there is a groove cut in that piece of wood with the instruction sticker, the bezel sits down inside that groove.

Thanks! that is good to know!

[javeryh]

Does anyone know where I can find the bottom bezel retainer? No one seems to carry it, I can only find the Marquee top and bottom, the top bezel, and the bar, but not the one that goes on the piece of wood with the instruction sticker...

my DK does not have a bottom bezel retainer..  there is a groove cut in that piece of wood with the instruction sticker, the bezel sits down inside that groove.

Neither does mine.  Real good progress by the way.   

[severdhed]

agreed...i'm very impressed...keep up the good work

[sk8ersublime]

I GOT MY BEZEL TODAY! LOOKS GREAT!



the only parts I need now are the marquee holders, which ill get soon.  I just got a job offer, so I have free time til the 16th...i need to work fast and get my orders in! lol

[javeryh]

Ahhh, I remember when my bezel arrived - I had to wait a few MONTHS before peeling the protective paper off because I didn't want anything to happen to it before it was installed.  Every day I wanted to take a peek.

[sk8ersublime]

Ahhh, I remember when my bezel arrived - I had to wait a few MONTHS before peeling the protective paper off because I didn't want anything to happen to it before it was installed.  Every day I wanted to take a peek.

Haha yea, im like a kid who has to open his toy right away...im holding myself back tho.. its not coming off until the machine is painted and ready to go.

[mr_doles]

Looked at yours then called and got my DK Jr stuff.  I am not even close to starting this thing but put the order in anyway.  I will be staring at that for months too.

[sk8ersublime]

Looked at yours then called and got my DK Jr stuff.  I am not even close to starting this thing but put the order in anyway.  I will be staring at that for months too.

Nice!

Im hoping my control panel from Mikesarcade comes today. If not today, it should be here tomorrow.  MY marquee was shipped 3 days after i ordered it, so I guess i wont have that until next week...i still need the marquee holders anyway.

[sk8ersublime]

Control Panel and Latches came today, not at my house, so I havent seen it yet, but they are at my grandpa's workshop.

I went ahead and bought the marquee holders today, and the bezel retainer.

And I went to Lowes and got the custom paint I found on some website, it looks good in the can, so its close enough, and a quart of flat black and some primer.

This weekend A LOT is getting done. Be ready for pics

[sk8ersublime]

Marquee today! Im heading up in a few minutes to go work on the cab! Hopefully the bezel and control panel will fit without a gap on the sides, otherwise ill have to cut off a little of my bottom, top, front, and speaker panel.

[sk8ersublime]

I mounted the control panel today, with the control panel latches. It looks really good, the mikesarcade.com panel is awesome! I made a video of the cab with me rambling haha, and ill post pics here. I used some tape to hold up the marquee and I had my girlfriend hold up the bezel while i took some pics. Enjoy and comment! Thanks!

Oh and mr_doles, the control panel side thing you gave me measurements for worked great! Thanks! 





Pics

[mr_doles]

First off that is coming out real nice.  I spent a crap load of money because I could not build what you have done.  Second off that CP looks real nice from Mikesarcade, I will definitly be ording my DK JR from there.

As far as the hair differance on the CP and marquee, may need to get someone here who has one but I was looking at the pictures on KLOV .  If  you look at the marquee at the top of the page you will see red hair, if you look at the link to the image of the CP it has red hair.  The side art is blonde.  The bezel also shows red, can you see what the bezel is on yours, blonde or red.  With that being said I looked at a ton of restores on klov and byoac and there is no real consistancy between red and blonde hair, see it both ways.  Maybe someone will chime in with the answer.

Oh and mr_doles, the control panel side thing you gave me measurements for worked great! Thanks! 

Phew, I was so nervous about that, seriously I measured that thing 20 times to make sure it was right!

[sk8ersublime]

can you see what the bezel is on yours, blonde or red.  With that being said I looked at a ton of restores on klov and byoac and there is no real consistancy between red and blonde hair, see it both ways.

The bezel is Blonde, and the CP is blonde, the marquee is red...I also think that the marquee red and orange stripes are darker than the bezel.  I guess i wont know for sure until i am done painting and i take the film off the bezel

[sk8ersublime]

I did some work today looks really good!

Marquee and Bezel was a pain in the ass!!!!!

I cut the slot in the under bezel piece too, looks good!

I filled some of the holes with wood putty, and all i really have left to do is paint I guess, and im gonna make a black bezel to go around the screen inside.

Im not to sure about the monitor angle either, but here is what I have done so far, take a look.

[WhereEaglesDare]

Looks great, I like your phone cam video, very candid.

[javeryh]

Looking good.  I can't wait to see how you go about painting it.

then comes all the monitor trouble which I havent decided if ill keep my 19'' LCD for this, or if I will get a CRT....low power consumption is always a plus....but i dont know which way im leaning yet.

Get a CRT!!!  It makes all the difference in the world.  I used a Happs Vision Pro which is a horizontal mount but I was creative and managed to fit it inside.  Go for it!

[sk8ersublime]

Looking good.  I can't wait to see how you go about painting it.

then comes all the monitor trouble which I havent decided if ill keep my 19'' LCD for this, or if I will get a CRT....low power consumption is always a plus....but i dont know which way im leaning yet.

Get a CRT!!!  It makes all the difference in the world.  I used a Happs Vision Pro which is a horizontal mount but I was creative and managed to fit it inside.  Go for it!

Well I have a Samsung CRT 19'' monitor that i could hack open and mount maybe...

but honestly i think with scanlines on and with it being behind the smoked plexi it will prolly be ok, its so much easier to mount too...

[sk8ersublime]

I just put that samsung in my old cab for the time being, on its side, with scanlines....does look pretty good...

but...

Im trying to get your DK 1st level score haha...the longer you hop that flame the harder it is to get past the barrels. :\

[mr_doles]

I am liking it a lot.

[javeryh]

Im trying to get your DK 1st level score haha...the longer you hop that flame the harder it is to get past the barrels. :\

That's not MY video - I just found it on Youtube (and I wish I didn't).

[sk8ersublime]

Im trying to get your DK 1st level score haha...the longer you hop that flame the harder it is to get past the barrels. :\

That's not MY video - I just found it on Youtube (and I wish I didn't).

oh haha! i totally thought it was yours...i tried it last night but the most i could get was like 7,700 on the first stage

[javeryh]

Im trying to get your DK 1st level score haha...the longer you hop that flame the harder it is to get past the barrels. :\

That's not MY video - I just found it on Youtube (and I wish I didn't).

oh haha! i totally thought it was yours...i tried it last night but the most i could get was like 7,700 on the first stage

 

That's about what I get when the point press works.  When it doesn't I end up with about 5,500 so it is an extra 2,000 points but in the grand scheme of things it doesn't help me much because I can't always maximize points on all the levels yet.  Like in level 2 I know the theory of how to do it but the fireball movements are so random that more often than not I'll end up with 2 of them not trapped and can only do the 100 point jump at the top until one of them gets close.  I guess I'll keep practicing though because there must be stuff I'm not seeing.  If it really was random then there's no way people could consistently pass every level AND point press for maximum points.

[sk8ersublime]

Painted tonight but i dont have any painters tape, so I have to get some tomorrow and finish up the edging. So far, so good. Pics and Video

[meany]

Don't forget to paint inside the speaker grill

[sk8ersublime]

Don't forget to paint inside the speaker grill

that might not happen since its gonna be a pain in the ass... haha

[Sledgehammer]

Don't forget to paint inside the speaker grill

that might not happen since its gonna be a pain in the ass... haha

I got the same feedback on my DK scratch build, and I never did it. I notice it once and awhile but don't really care that much to try and fix it.

[javeryh]

Don't forget to paint inside the speaker grill

that might not happen since its gonna be a pain in the ass... haha

I got the same feedback on my DK scratch build, and I never did it. I notice it once and awhile but don't really care that much to try and fix it.

Mine never had the inside of the grill painted so I didn't bother either.  You honestly can't tell.   

[Sectorseven]

I think it's great that you're explaining all the problems and flaws you're having during construction. A lot of the scratch builds and restorations people on here do seem to come out perfect, and it makes it difficult for other people to anticipate problems with their own builds.

[sk8ersublime]

I think it's great that you're explaining all the problems and flaws you're having during construction. A lot of the scratch builds and restorations people on here do seem to come out perfect, and it makes it difficult for other people to anticipate problems with their own builds.

Well i do not have many (if any) wood working skills, so the fact that i have something standing is fine for me! haha!

I have new video and pics that I will put up after I eat....

Cab is pretty much done with the outside, Have a few issues still, but oh well, ill share more in a few, gotta eat!

[sk8ersublime]

ok here are the latest pics and video.

I cant get rid of the roller marks on the sides...its really annoying. I took my time, lightly went over the entire thing and its just lighter in spots

and I couldnt find my glue gun, so i did manage to find some Putty Epoxy, so I put some of that in the oversized slot, put the T-molding in, but it wouldnt stay, so i had to tape the molding up, im hoping once the putty cures, it will hold the molding on, if not, ill have a new glue gun next time.













I KNOW THAT MONKEY! HIS NAME IS DONKEY!

[severdhed]

thats looking awesome...great work. 

i hate to rain on your parade, and i'm not sure if this is true for all DK cabinets, but on mine, the top is black, not blue. either way i think it looks great.

[javeryh]

ok here are the latest pics and video.

I cant get rid of the roller marks on the sides...its really annoying. I took my time, lightly went over the entire thing and its just lighter in spots

Looks GREAT.  I had the same exact problem with the roller marks.  What kind of roller are you using?  I was trying light coats with a foam roller and it was hell - I put like 5 or 6 light coats on (sanding in between, of course) and couldn't for the life of me get rid of the roller marks.  Then someone suggested a 1/4" nap roller and it went on BEAUTIFULLY.  No roller marks at all.  I was shocked and quite happy - it made all the difference in the world.

i hate to rain on your parade, and i'm not sure if this is true for all DK cabinets, but on mine, the top is black, not blue. either way i think it looks great.

Mine is black too.   

[sk8ersublime]

ok here are the latest pics and video.

I cant get rid of the roller marks on the sides...its really annoying. I took my time, lightly went over the entire thing and its just lighter in spots

Looks GREAT.  I had the same exact problem with the roller marks.  What kind of roller are you using?  I was trying light coats with a foam roller and it was hell - I put like 5 or 6 light coats on (sanding in between, of course) and couldn't for the life of me get rid of the roller marks.  Then someone suggested a 1/4" nap roller and it went on BEAUTIFULLY.  No roller marks at all.  I was shocked and quite happy - it made all the difference in the world.

i hate to rain on your parade, and i'm not sure if this is true for all DK cabinets, but on mine, the top is black, not blue. either way i think it looks great.

Mine is black too.   

I used a foam roller for doors and cabinets. I may have to give that Nap roller a try! Thanks! my cousin wants to use his spray gun to paint it, which is an option I guess...As for it being black on top, I'm leaving mine blue. Lol that black paint sucks!

[sk8ersublime]

Got it up and running today I know I have a few little things i am over looking but here it is for now. Take a look at the video and the pics

http://img688.imageshack.us/gal.php?g=img0270p.jpg

[Sledgehammer]

Looking good. I had the same problem with the roller marks. Never was able to get rid of them.

Quick question, and maybe I missed it earlier in your post, but where the hell is the coin door?

J

[Jakobud]

First off, don't trust the Jakobud plans and don't trust the pic you compared it to.

/sadface

Eh nevermind, I know my plans aren't perfect.

[sk8ersublime]

First off, don't trust the Jakobud plans and don't trust the pic you compared it to.

/sadface

Eh nevermind, I know my plans aren't perfect.

If it wasnt for your plans, I would have never attempted this project. 

[sk8ersublime]

Looking good. I had the same problem with the roller marks. Never was able to get rid of them.

Quick question, and maybe I missed it earlier in your post, but where the hell is the coin door?

J

I dont want to put a coin door on unless I get a nintendo one. for the time being, im not worrying about it.

[javeryh]

Looks good.  Getting it playable will really slow down the progress!

[severdhed]

looks real good...good job.  are you planning on installing side art on this? 

as for your DK running slow, you may need to use an older version of mame.  Not that long ago (i don't remember which version, but i'm sure someone here does) mame changed how the audio was handled..it used to use audio samples, and now it doesn't, which apparently causes it to run alot slower.  it seems to run fine on my Athlon XP 2500+ with 1gb of DDR400 ram, but on older machines, you would be much better off to go with an older version of mame.  Are you planning on running any other games on this? or just set it up as a dedicated DK?  I went the same route as Javeryh and set mine up to run the vertical 4way classics that require 1 button or less, which leaves me with a little over 30 games.

[sk8ersublime]

looks real good...good job.  are you planning on installing side art on this?  

as for your DK running slow, you may need to use an older version of mame.  Not that long ago (i don't remember which version, but i'm sure someone here does) mame changed how the audio was handled..it used to use audio samples, and now it doesn't, which apparently causes it to run alot slower.  it seems to run fine on my Athlon XP 2500+ with 1gb of DDR400 ram, but on older machines, you would be much better off to go with an older version of mame.  Are you planning on running any other games on this? or just set it up as a dedicated DK?  I went the same route as Javeryh and set mine up to run the vertical 4way classics that require 1 button or less, which leaves me with a little over 30 games.

Yea im gonna get the side art soon, maybe ill order it tonight.... As for Mame running slow, that machine is a POS.  It needs to be reformatted.  But my friend is gonna give me his old AMD machine with a decent AGP card so it should be plenty to run it.  I just wanted to see how it would look with the game running, and make sure that the controller worked properly. It looks awesome, and the controller worked great! And I do plan on running more than just donkey kong. I will probably make a 2 player panel at some point I have to have my arcade space/plane shooters

[bertthedefender]

What an enjoyable thread - I love posts like this.  Great looking scratch built cabinet too! 

[sk8ersublime]

What an enjoyable thread - I love posts like this.  Great looking scratch built cabinet too! 

Thanks! I wish I had more updates for it, but I just started my new job, so I have not had the time to drive up to the workshop :\

I probably will not work on in much at all until the beginning of April when I move to my new place, because it is going to be the first thing I move in! lol

[sk8ersublime]

I found a member on here, well....a seller....and for a DK coin door he wants $150....yea right.

I found another one on KLOV for best offer but its pretty messed up since someone tried to break into it.

Any other places I should check for one besides here and ebay?

[javeryh]

I found a member on here, well....a seller....and for a DK coin door he wants $150....yea right.

I found another one on KLOV for best offer but its pretty messed up since someone tried to break into it.

Any other places I should check for one besides here and ebay?

$150?  That's insane.  I think KLOV is your best bet.  If you are diligent and check in regularly you will find on eventually.  I see them come up all them time.

[sk8ersublime]

Moving tonight!!!! Finally get the DK cab in my house....let the games begin.....

[sk8ersublime]

So Ive been playing the cabinet more, i need more support in it because it flexes a bit, i think its because i used L brackets....anyway. Quick question.

I bought the Mikes Arcade control panel, the joystick works fine, but the Happ Competition buttons have a slow reaction time. It works ok for DK, but i tried playing Galaga on the cab, and it was just too slow to have a good shot.  Any suggestions on buttons?

[javeryh]

So Ive been playing the cabinet more, i need more support in it because it flexes a bit, i think its because i used L brackets....anyway. Quick question.

I bought the Mikes Arcade control panel, the joystick works fine, but the Happ Competition buttons have a slow reaction time. It works ok for DK, but i tried playing Galaga on the cab, and it was just too slow to have a good shot.  Any suggestions on buttons?

I'm pretty sure there can only be 2 lasers on screen at once in Galaga no matter how fast you press the button.  Not sure if that changes your thinking or not...

[sk8ersublime]

So Ive been playing the cabinet more, i need more support in it because it flexes a bit, i think its because i used L brackets....anyway. Quick question.

I bought the Mikes Arcade control panel, the joystick works fine, but the Happ Competition buttons have a slow reaction time. It works ok for DK, but i tried playing Galaga on the cab, and it was just too slow to have a good shot.  Any suggestions on buttons?

I'm pretty sure there can only be 2 lasers on screen at once in Galaga no matter how fast you press the button.  Not sure if that changes your thinking or not...

yea yea, i know

I guess i wasnt being clear. The problem is that the button just feels slow coming back up after the initial press, maybe it just needs to be broken in with a weekend session? Compared to my old x-arcade buttons i have on my other cab, this thing feels slow.

[sk8ersublime]

Hey guys, Its been awhile since ive posted, but Ive been busy with work and playing on the cab   Ive been playing a lot of Dig Dug II! Awesome game...my personal high so far ~230,000....anyway.....here is a pic of the cab, i cleaned the bezel last night and I had to take some more pics when I was done.

Also, I am sick of the 1 player controller, so I am going to make a custom one...I took the 2player artwork from that Vector art site and I played around with it in AI. Here is what I got. Tell me what you think!







Here is the cab...I still need my side art :



And a Video



(The video is still processing probably...)

Anyway, I know that the colors are a little different the Yellow/Orange is just orange, but overall I think it turned out well, but if you have suggestions I would like to hear them before I start cutting Im gonna keep the 1 player for now, Im not gonna ruin that thing...it looks too good

[wp34]

I like your 2 player panel.  It looks enough like DK but gives you more flexibility.  Keeping the DK character in the middle is a nice touch as well.

I'm going to do something similar with a Q*Bert restore I'm working on.  Just curious why you chose to have 5 buttons?

Very nice build!

[sk8ersublime]

I actually got the artwork from

http://vectorlib.free.fr/

there is a custom 2 player 2 button setup there, I played around with it and I didnt want separate button outlines with JUMP written on all of them so I stretched one to be wider for that same feel, but then moved the jump above the outline.

The reason I went with 5 is basically because it fit nicely. I think 4 would look odd, and 5 is nice for fighting games like MK. HP,LP, HK, LK, Block. Not that I play those much, but i needed atleast 3 buttons for games like metal slug.

[sk8ersublime]

I got Side art! finally...i noticed in the video that the one side was starting to roll up...ill have to keep an eye on that. Also I have finished the 2 player controller. Please leave feedback! I wanna hear what people think!

Video:



The Video might take a while to process.