Slot cutting knightmare :(

[DHTech]

I'd never used a router before and did a couple of test cuts on some spare MDF, these cut perfectly with the slot nice and central, however on cutting my first cabinet side, the cut initially started off ok and then somehow went adrift - user error  .

I though about filling but found the slot too narrow to get a good amount of filler in, so I have now recut all the slots correctly, obviously some parts are now way to wide for the T moulding, so my option are, now it's wider I can get filler in and then recut again when dry, or I can glue the T Moulding where the slot is too wide!

Any helpful comments please 

[HaRuMaN]

You could, a little at a time, add hot glue to the areas that are too wide, and then press the T-molding in.  Wear gloves, the T-molding might heat up a bit

[Vigo]

Yeah, hot glue sounds like a good choice.

If this is a load bearing part of the cabinet (aka, the bottom of the cabinet and you are not using feet), you may want to fill it with something stronger like Bondo.

[Jumpman64]

I would fill in the areas that are too wide with bondo and re-cut.

[mgb]

personally I would refill with the slots with bondo (at least where its too wide) and re-cut the slots but another option (besides the hot glue, which should work also) is light grit sandpaper.
I had a cab where the slots were kinda wide and I took strips of light grit sandpaper and folded and placed in the slots before sticking in the t molding. it worked very well and was neater than hot glue.

btw, I've experienced a run away router while slotting my first control panel and I was quite ticked, so I understand how you feel.

[DHTech]

Thanks for all the comments, think I'll fill and recut, wasn't sure what Bondo was, I assume it car body filler rather than wood filler!

[Vigo]

Yep, Bondo is car filler, but it works great. So great that bondo now makes a wood filler. Pretty much the same stuff, but tan instead of pink. The stuff is very stong, sandable and does not warp with temperature changes. There is other stuff on the market, but Bondo is pretty much the goto stuff for patching up arcade machines.

 

[DHTech]

Cabinet side rescued, phew  Filled the slot with wood filler, let in dry for 4 or so hours and recut the slot, perfect.

Thanks again for all the advice 

[Vigo]

 

[DHTech]

Second side cut perfectly, note to self: 'must not rush when cutting with the router'. 

[kahlid74]

Side note, when using Bondo or filler and then routing make sure to use an air mask/purifier.  Super fine particles that do a number on your lungs.  They get caught in the pores and create numerous health issues.

[mgb]

Second side cut perfectly, note to self: 'must not rush when cutting with the router'. 

Very true.
It's amazing how that little bit gets a way from you when you try and rush it.
  Hold it firm and steady and take it slow and you can't go wrong.