Joystick mounting/centering tips?

[Bach730]

I'm building my first cp and decided to go with a mag stik plus as my joystick. Anyone have tips on how to center the plate (I'm doing the under-mount) so that the stick is reasonably in the center of the hole ? I drilled a 1-1/8" hole and because the joystick has such a short throw, I'm not concerned with the height as my top is 3/4". If I get it centered it should work fine.

Thanks!

[PL1]

Try the "two folding chairs" method described here. (scroll down 2 posts for associated pics)   


Scott

[Bach730]

Will do. Thanks!

[RandyT]

Another way would be to use a hole saw (the hollow kind with a drill in the center) to cut a plug of material that is close to the size of the hole.  Then use the pilot hole already in the plug as a guide to drill another hole just a hair bigger than the joystick shaft.  The plug will be smaller by the thickness of the hole saw blade, but the cheap ones are pretty thin.  Some duct tape wrapped around the plug can take up slack if necessary.  Slip it over the shaft, place it in the hole and mark your mounting holes.  When finished, just throw it in your tool bin for  the next time.

[EMDB]

Just measure the width and height of the plate, mark the position half the width minus the hole size to the left and right of the hole. Do the same for the height. Now you have the exact positions the edges of the plate should be positioned. Didn't you guys have math lessons in high school?

[PL1]

Just measure the width and height of the plate, mark the position half the width minus the hole size to the left and right of the hole. Do the same for the height. Now you have the exact positions the edges of the plate should be positioned. Didn't you guys have math lessons in high school?

The problem with that method isn't the math, it is that it's very easy to get a few mm off on the markings when the center hole is already drilled.

When you use the mounting plate as a template, you ensure that all the inserts will line up with the holes, especially if you need to drill extra holes in the plate like in this instance.


Scott