Converting old Cabinet need help...

[NaTSuMi]

I'm fairly new to all this byoac stuff, but I have build various arcade controllers for use in the dreamcast.

I recently purchased 2 old school arcade cabinets (both Street fighter II cabinets).  The monitors do not work.  I would like to convert it into a nice MAME cabinet.

First of all, I wanted to repaint the cabinet as its very ugly.  Anyone have tips on this?  What kind of paint should I use?  Should I use spray paint? or just regular paint (liek what you use to paint the house with)?  Should I first sand off the old paint or can I just paint right over it?

Second, the monitors don't work, so I wanted to remove them.  I heard that you have to discharge monitors, is that necesary before I remove it?  Is there any trick to removing the monitor?  OR do I just unscrew it and pull it out?  

Any other various tips you guys have would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks a lot.

[SteveJ34]

1. Painting....

I would recommend sanding and filling any holes, mars with wood filler, then sanding flush again followed by a coat of primer (I use KILZ brand) and finally a couple of coats of whatever color you prefer (I chose a semi-gloss black).

I used a foam rollers for smooth finish for both primer and final coats. I was painting on MDF and I like the very slight texture this creates.

It will be difficult to get an even finish using spray cans. Some that are more versed than I in the "paint world" and that have access to a spray rig have gone this route.

2. Monitors....

Yes, they may likely still carry voltage. Discharge would probably be a smart idea so I must leave advise to this component of your post to other's who are more experts than I.

If it were me, I would just be careful to not touch the flyback or capacitors on the component boards and just yank them out....but that's me.

Exercise caution in this area, whatever your decision.

Welcome to the crazy world of "build your own mame cab". Its fun!

Best of luck.

Steve

[Rick Osborn]

If the cabinet sides are smooth and in good shape, you can simply primer the cab.  Then use foam rollers with the paint color of your choice to apply the paint.  

Regarding the monitors...just unbolt the chasis and remove by holding the chasis and don't touch anything else.  I did this with one of my SF style cab's 25" monitor.  Then I sold it to someone for $100 and never discharged or anything.

Rick

I'm fairly new to all this byoac stuff, but I have build various arcade controllers for use in the dreamcast.

I recently purchased 2 old school arcade cabinets (both Street fighter II cabinets).