Mounting of Mag-Stik joysticks

[tsaylor]

Hi,

I'm starting my first project and trying to figure out the control layout.  I'm using parts from Ultimarc, who don't include any documentation but instead provide it online.  I see the measurements there but I haven't found anything that mentions what size hole to cut.  So, my questions...

What size hole should be cut for a Mag-Stik plus joystick mounted below a 3/4" panel?  (using the standard bat-style handle)

Any suggestions on the dust washer?  I'm thinking it might look better under the panel but then it would probably be necessary to use a router to make a space for it under the panel (otherwise it would bind between the joystick body and the bottom of the panel).  Maybe I'll just place it above the panel.

Is HDF a reasonable material to use?  (high density fiberboard, like MDF only more solid and compressed)

Thanks!

[Ginsu Victim]

Drill a 1 1/8" hole for the stick.

Remove the mounting plate from the joystick (there are screws on top that make it easy) and use it as your template for lining up the mounting.

I'm a dust washer above the CP guy, myself.

[RobbyMac]

Me too. I remember reading something about the dust washer possibly getting caught under the joystick shaft(or bat/whatever its called) during switching of 4-8 way modes. I remember this happening once or twice when testing the mechanism (not mounted to any cp).
But I've not had it happen at all since completing my cp. The sticks were bottom mounted with about a 1/8" recess.

[tsaylor]

Thanks guys!  I'll need to take apart the shaft so that I can get it through the panel.  Then I think you're right that the dust washer will work out better on top.

I read that part about the dust washer getting caught too (they recommended adding a cardboard "washer"), but I've experimented a little bit and it doesn't look to me like it would get caught.  Maybe they've made a small change since then.