Routing for joysticks...

[nathan118]

I've been looking for good info on how to route the control panel for joysticks. Here's some questions I have.

1) Does it always need to be done?

2) Do you route out the top of the control panel, or underneath?

3) How big of a hole do you make on top? Just big enough for the controller stick's shaft?


Looking at a Pac-Man/Galaga replacement stick got me confused. There's only a small "edge" to the thing, so if you cut a big hole in the top to drop it in, there'd only be a small amount of MDF for the controller to rest on. That got me thinking that I was all wrong. That you route the bottom of the control panel and this way it's just closer to the top, thus making the stick longer. Hope that makes sense. Any help you guys have I really appreciate. Hard to find info on this.

[wakerlet]

I'm not sure about the routing.  I've avoided the entire situation.  See my post about a good 4-way stick for MDF applications

http://www.arcadecontrols.org/yabbse/index.php?board=1;action=display;threadid=24743

[FractalWalk]

1) Does it always need to be done?

It only needs to be done if you want it. It's personal preference.


2) Do you route out the top of the control panel, or underneath?

Underneath. The idea is to raise the joystick and make the exposed shaft longer.  


3) How big of a hole do you make on top? Just big enough for the controller stick's shaft?

1-1/8" is pretty standard. You need room to move the stick around.

[nathan118]

I saw your post wakerlet, kinda what got me thinking. I ordered everything but my 4 way stick, and the one you got looks like a good choice. Does Betson have an online store? I did a search on Google and came up empty.

Thanks for the clarifications fractalwalk. Obviously this is my first cab project. I've got myself a carbide straight bit and ordering a 3-wing slot cutter as we speak. Can't wait to actually get hands on see it come together! You guys rock.

[daywane]

wall mart has a large set of spade bits for $10.00

[nathan118]

wall mart has a large set of spade bits for $10.00

Using those to make holes for buttons/joysticks I assume? I think my brother has a set, but not sure. Gotta check on that.

[wakerlet]

nathan118,

Yes although my regional distributer said these are too new for the web site.

http://www.betson.com

See the other post for the part number.  I just filled out the contact us form on their website and asked for a call or email ASAP.  I got a call from the Michigan rep the same day.  It's nice working with someone who checks your order and makes sure you aren't getting anything that doesn't work with your other parts.

They have decent prices on monitors and this new longer shafted 4-way balltop is t*ts.

Also Bob Roberts is another trusted source for Happ parts.  http://www.therealbobroberts.com

Good Luck!

[daywane]

wall mart has a large set of spade bits for $10.00

Using those to make holes for buttons/joysticks I assume? I think my brother has a set, but not sure. Gotta check on that.

thay work well for wood panels. I use them. for metal I found drill bits made for metal at lowes. expensive , I can not  rember the price. I need to find a 3" bit for metal. after I find it I will post the price.

[nathan118]

Cool, Betson has a distributer bought 10 miles away from me. Have to get on the phone!

Ended up buying a router today. My brother was playing with it on a junk piece....thing is darn cool! Routing out for the joysticks looks like it will be easier than i thought. I'll keep you guys posted. There's a special board just for projects right?