New Product: Versa-Ball Joystick Replacement Shafts

[RandyT]

Got an OMNI-Stick Basic joystick and want a Ball-top instead of the stock handle? 

Or maybe you want to ditch that bat on your Competition, Super or even X-Arcade joystick?

Or maybe you felt left out in the cold because you had a 3/4" or 1/2"  thick panel and because you mount your sticks below, the handles are either too stubby or too long?

.......We thought so.   


Introducing the Versa-Ball Multi-Compatible Ball-Top Joystick Shafts.

The Versa-Ball shafts are precision CNC machined from solid Stainless-Steel for years of great looking, trouble-free service.

A large variety of interchangable balls are available, including mirror finish Stainless Steel, Textured and Shiny Red/Black balls of various sizes, and "Super Grip" rubber coated balls.

The E-clip grooves have been specially engineered to allow the Versa-Ball shafts to work with the following arcade joystick bases:


Tested:

 - GGG OMNI-Stick Basic (spacers recommended to accomodate "domed" top or will sit taller than others)
 - Happ Super*
 - Happ Competition*
 - X-Arcade*

Recently confirmed:

- PacMan Reunion/Galaga Joystick*  (Thanks to spiffyshoes for the dimensions and special thanks to whammoed and JODY for testing them out with the actual units and reporting back with results and pictures (later in this thread).)


The Versa-ball shafts are designed for use with "under the panel" joystick installations on panels of 1/2" to 7/8" in thickness.  There are 2 height selections optimized for an approximate 2-inch height to the bottom of the ball.  One selection for panels less than 3/4" thick and one for 3/4" or thicker panels, all on one shaft!  1/2" panel users have the option of a longer stick by using the 3/4"  panel setting and likewise, 3/4" panel users may opt for a shorter stick by using the 1/2" panel setting.

This item will be available in the next day or so at the GGG web store.

$11.95 w/ Your Choice of available Ball-Tops. (except Stainless)

$19.95 w/  1 3/8" Mirror Polished Stainless Steel Ball-Top

Both include E-clips for installation.


Thanks for looking,

RandyT



* All trademarks are property of their respective owners.  GGG has no affiliation with these companies, nor is this product endorsed by them for use with their respective products. 

[paigeoliver]

If those work on super, then they SHOULD work on the Ms. Pac Reunion stick, do they?

[RandyT]

If those work on super, then they SHOULD work on the Ms. Pac Reunion stick, do they?

If the Super and the Reunion sticks are interchangable, they should.  I will certainly accept the return if someone wanted to try it and finds that it doesn't work.

I don't have one to test it with.  Sorry.

RandyT

[Gunstar Hero]

Hmmm... what about P360's on a wood panel?

[NoOne=NBA=]

RandyT,

Can you please look into making a shaft that will fit the Happ's 49-way?

That's the one stick I have that doesn't currently have a balltop on it, and I really, really want one for it.

[paigeoliver]

RandyT,

Can you please look into making a shaft that will fit the Happ's 49-way?

That's the one stick I have that doesn't currently have a balltop on it, and I really, really want one for it.

Dude, the WILLIAMS 49-way sticks are ALL balltops,

As for the Ms Pac stick. The reunion stick will take the super handle, but the super won't take the Ms. Pac handle

[Goz]

I am placing an order for a pair of these for some supers I can try them with one of the reuninions I have for validation. I'll reply back with my experience with the shafts.

-Goz

[Kremmit]

I'm a Wico nut, guess I'm outta luck.

Randy, could you post measurements for us?  Shaft diameter, length from base of ball to end, and the length from base of ball to each of the e-clip grooves should cover it.  That way, we should be able to figure out some of the other sticks it might fit.

[Knievel]

Another great product Randy, you've been busy lately  
Can't wait to grab some of these!

Any future plans for blue tops??

[paigeoliver]

I'm a Wico nut, guess I'm outta luck.

Randy, could you post measurements for us?  Shaft diameter, length from base of ball to end, and the length from base of ball to each of the e-clip grooves should cover it.  That way, we should be able to figure out some of the other sticks it might fit.

You need some Wico handles? I have them in red, red, or red.

[NoOne=NBA=]

Dude, the WILLIAMS 49-way sticks are ALL balltops

Two problems with this.

1) I don't have a Williams 49-way.
2) The ones I've seen on ebay in the last year-and-a-half have all either gone too high, or been pretty beat looking.

That, and the orange they used on most of them was ugly.

[paigeoliver]

I have an orange one, tested working, $30 shipped. Good shape. It is orange though.

This place has the replacement handles in non-orange for the williams one.

http://members.aol.com/specialtyplastic/Joysticks.htm

[DrewKaree]

I know you said day or so, but I prolly jumped the gun looking for 'em....not yet, unless it's that "hard to find on your site" thing ;-)

[Minwah]

Can you please look into making a shaft that will fit the Happ's 49-way?

I'd like this too...

How does the Super / Competition handle differ to the 49-way?  Is the e-clip groove in a different place?  The handle itself looks the same...

[Tiger-Heli]

Cool product, Thanks Randy!

Will these work with the Prodigy?  I would assume so since there's a Prodigy Retro, but wanted to ask anyway?

(Just out of curiosity . . . )

[Kremmit]

You need some Wico handles? I have them in red, red, or red.

No thank you, I already have red, red, & red (& red, & red, &....)
But those stainless ones look tempting!

[RayB]

RandyT:
If you're serious about selling *alot* of these, I'd suggest you buy as many varities of joysticks that you can and test them, so you have an official lengthy list of compatibilities. The longer your list,  the wider your market.

~Ray B.

[shmokes]

Does anyone know if these should work with a Happ Mechanical Rotary stick?  And if so....sorry, this is a tiny bit of a highjack:

RayB, weren't you selling ball-top top-fire sticks?  I HATE the look of the Happ top-fires, but when you were selling those I didn't get any because there weren't any ball-top replacements for the Happ rotary sticks on my panel.

But, if Randy's would work for my rotary stick that changes EVERYTHING and I'd be placing an order with both of you (especially if it were possible to get black ball-top top-fires).

[Grasshopper]

They look great. I've been waiting for someone to produce something like this for a long time.

Randy, I've often been irritated by your abrasive comments on this board, and you also have a tendency to take criticism of your products the wrong way.

But on this occasion you have listened to what your customers want and you've delivered the goods. Well done.

I have a few questions if you don't mind.

Will the ball tops be available in dark blue?

Will the shafts fit the T-Stiks and the other IL joysticks?

What is the diameter of the ball tops?

Will dust washers be available?

Thanks in advance.

[DrewKaree]

Randy, I've often been irritated by your abrasive comments on this board, and you also have a tendency to take criticism of your products the wrong way.

At least it's explained in a constructive fashion that's conducive to furthering his replies in a non-abrasive fashion

[NoOne=NBA=]

How does the Super / Competition handle differ to the 49-way?

[RayB]

RayB, weren't you selling ball-top top-fire sticks?

[SirPoonga]

Out of curiosity, do you, or does anyone know, if I can get white and black balltops?  I might be restoring my double dragon Ii in the future.  Going to keep the leaf base.

[NoOne=NBA=]

The link Paige put up above shows white & black.

[Kremmit]

 Posted by: SirPoonga      Posted on: November 22, 2004 at 10:20:38 PM

Out of curiosity, do you, or does anyone know, if I can get white and black balltops?  I might be restoring my double dragon Ii in the future.  Going to keep the leaf base.

They show on ebay too, once in a while.  I usually see 'em in large joystick lots for some reason, never by themselves. 

re: keeping the leaf base-
If you're interested, ebay seller iman-tis has been selling p360 conversion kits for the Wico bases.  I picked up some, and I saw another BYOACer grab one, too.  Haven't received mine, so I can't tell you how well it works yet. 

[Minwah]

The shaft is alot longer on the bottom, so that he longer actuator can be used.

Not as simple as just turning another groove then

[RandyT]

For those who have been waiting, the Versa-Ball shafts are now available at the GGG Store under the "Modifications" and "Joysticks" categories.

A direct link is here.


Also, the shafts are the standard 10mm diameter used on a number of sticks.  If your stick requires a 10mm shaft, and you can supply me with the distance between the top shoulder and the bottom e-ring, I will give you an indicator as to whether these have a chance of working with your base.  Because of the way the T-Stick is attached to the base, I do not believe these shafts will work with them.

The "Retro" has it's own special shaft as it is a top mounted stick.  These shafts are designed for below panel installations.

We will continually explore new ball types and colors, but these are the options for now.  Current diameters range from 1.25" to 1.5" and are listed as options at the store.

Unless I can find a source for bulk dust washers, I'll be forced to make my own.  This is not an issue for anyone other than OMNI-Stick owners as you can use the one from your current base.  More as this develops.



As for my "abrasive" nature.....probably has something to do with those pills they told me to take, back when I joined the military...(they never did tell me what they were  for )

RandyT

[Tiger-Heli]

For those who have been waiting, the Versa-Ball shafts are now available at the GGG Store under the "Modifications" category.

A direct link is here.

Thanks Randy!  I recommend also listing them under Joysticks or Cross-linking them under Joysticks, as that is where I think most people would look for them.  You probably want to update the main page about them.

[RandyT]

Thanks Randy!  I recommend also listing them under Joysticks or Cross-linking them under Joysticks, as that is where I think most people would look for them.

Done.  Thanks for the feedback.  The main page is going to take a little longer.  To make the store easier for people to find, I am going to make a "Y" in the road as the first page of the GGG site.  Should make it easier for folks to get  to where they want to be.  I'll also be trying to add more of the inventory of parts I've been sitting on to the store.

Thanks,
RandyT

[SaiNRuB]

Looks really good Randy, nice job.


Say I was wondering is there any joystick shaft i can use to replace on my OMNI Prodigy non retro joystick. I was wanting a black balltop to go with my nintendo cab. I really like the black shiny 1 3/8"

Good luck on your new products!

[Minwah]

I have a dumb question:

If the shafts are all one diameter, what stops the shaft slipping down (for say the competition)?  Isn't this step in diameter what holds the shaft in?  And how does it fit through the actuator (I mean without the step-down in diameter)?

http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/competition_joy_e.htm

[RandyT]

Looks really good Randy, nice job.


Say I was wondering is there any joystick shaft i can use to replace on my OMNI Prodigy non retro joystick. I was wanting a black balltop to go with my nintendo cab. I really like the black shiny 1 3/8"

Ok, new option.  Anyone looking to go "Retro" with their Prodigy can select the the "Base Type" option of OMNI-Stick Prodigy on the order page.  Same pricing applies.

Others can ignore this option, as it defaults to the style intended for the bases listed in the description.

RandyT

[SaiNRuB]

Ok, new option.

[RandyT]

I have a dumb question:

If the shafts are all one diameter, what stops the shaft slipping down (for say the competition)?  Isn't this step in diameter what holds the shaft in?  And how does it fit through the actuator (I mean without the step-down in diameter)?

http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/competition_joy_e.htm

I noticed this discussion starting in the thread from the competition.  So I'll play nice and address it here.

The design uses 2 industrial quality E-clips on a deep seat into the shaft.  These are made out of actual heavy steel, not the junk stamped parts that usually come with some of the sticks.  This is also what allows these sticks to have the  versatility that others lack.

As for "all the weight" on the e-clip, trust me.  Unless you are the type that plays "whac-a-mole" on the end of your stick... with a real sledge hammer,  the notion that these will come off accidentally is preposterous. The force required to unseat these will break the components in the base long before the clip gives way.

And, I'll even back this up with a money-back guarantee.  Be rough on them.  If you have any problems related to the above, just send them back for a refund.

RandyT

*edit* typos.....

[Tiger-Heli]

I noticed this discussion starting in the thread from the competion.  So I'll play nice and address it here.

RandyT, thanks for clarifying.  (I still don't see how it fits through the actuator.)

I have been following both threads (who'd of thunk), so let me clarify what happened:

Minwah asked first in this thread how the stick works without the stepped shaft.

The competition posted about their new product and someone mentioned that it looked good, but they would really like plastic tops.

Minwah posted a link in the competition's thread back to this thread attempting to help out the poster that wanted the plastic tops.

I THINK the competition took the link back to this thread as somewhat of an attack on their product and therefore mentioned the straight shaft in the other thread.

Everyone back to their corners . . . .

[Minwah]

Apologies for any misunderstanding, Tiger-Heli hit the nail on the head - I didn't mean to start anything, just trying to figure out how the shafts work purely because...

Ultimately I want a ball-top on my 49-way - I am just trying to weigh up if this is possible / the easiest way to do it.

Randy:

[SlikStik Christian]

I have a dumb question:

If the shafts are all one diameter, what stops the shaft slipping down (for say the competition)?

[RandyT]

Apologies for any misunderstanding, Tiger-Heli hit the nail on the head - I didn't mean to start anything, just trying to figure out how the shafts work purely because...

Ultimately I want a ball-top on my 49-way - I am just trying to weigh up if this is possible / the easiest way to do it.

Randy:  So how does the shaft (the part which is usually thinner) fit through the joystick's actuator?  It looks as though it isn't possible, but I don't have a Competition stick to examine to figure it out.  On my 49-way it certainly looks (note I haven't took it apart fully) like it isn't possible, at least without drilling out the centre of the actuator or something.

Edit: (sorry Tiger I missed the part where yo usaid you don't get it either)

No Problem....

The situation is this:  If any working part of the stick goes below 10mm in diameter (like the Ultimates....)  Then these shafts will not work.  If the 49-ways fall into this category, then I will need to look into a custom version.  If anyone wants to volunteer some precise dimensions, I will look into a special version.

In my personal opinion the step does more than act as a stop, it also fits through the plastic shaft spacer that actually prevents the shaft from being sloppy inside the base.

Hmmm....Well, in a situation like this, opinions don't really relate to solid engineering principle.  The shoulder on those sticks do nothing more than stop the stick from pulling through.   They are also part of what creates the spring tension required to center the stick.  On most of the common sticks, this is plastic and is molded into a spacer below the "knob".  It never goes inside the base, so I'm not sure what you are basing your opinion on.  The Versa-Ball design mimicks the original shaft exactly as far as it's interaction with the base is concerned, and there is no "slop" of any kind.  We have already sent out a few and I'm sure our first customers will be able to attest to this.

Obviously we have taken different engineering approaches in our designs, but just because you don't understand how mine works, doesn't mean that it doesn't work and work well. 

As far as competition, I wouldn

[Tiger-Heli]

Okay, I looked at Oscar's review and I think I see how it works on the competition.  Hard to tell without a stick to compare. . .

The competition's shaft does not appear to be stepped  (I think the Super's shaft may be stepped to accept the long or short sleeve).  The shaft goes through what OSCAR calls the Z-stop and the actuator attaches over that.

I am ASSuming that RandyT's stick will also go through the Z-Stop and the actuator goes over the stick/z-stop assembly.

Either that or the stick actually is stepped and you discard the Z-stop with RandyT's Versa-ball sticks, but I don't think so . . .

[subzero23]

so can anyone confirm the material the ball is made of on the ones from RandyT?
Are they the same size as the ones on X-Men/Simpsons etc

[Grasshopper]

Also, the shafts are the standard 10mm diameter used on a number of sticks.  If your stick requires a 10mm shaft, and you can supply me with the distance between the top shoulder and the bottom e-ring, I will give you an indicator as to whether these have a chance of working with your base.  Because of the way the T-Stick is attached to the base, I do not believe these shafts will work with them.

RandyT

Funny you should say that. I once tried fitting the shaft from my Happ Super (actually bought directly from IL) to my T-Stik (also bought directly from IL) just to see whether it would work, and it was fine. But I had to use some metal washers as spacers becasue the Super's shaft is slightly longer.

I don't really understand why IL fitted a screw to the bottom of the T-Stik yet used an e-ring on all their other joysticks. Both methods seem to work equally well.

With regards to the double e-ring design (one on the bottom and one of the top), someone correct me if I'm wrong but I think this is the way the Ms Pacman/Galaga stick works.

I actually prefer a slightly thicker shaft but it's not a bit deal and I can see that the double e-ring approach gives you more versatility over adjusting the joystick's height.

[Matt Berry]

You are correct the ms pacman / galaga stick from Happ and the Qix/space invaders stick from Betson use the double e-ring on the joystick handles. Both are also well received by thier users.

[RandyT]

Also, the shafts are the standard 10mm diameter used on a number of sticks.  If your stick requires a 10mm shaft, and you can supply me with the distance between the top shoulder and the bottom e-ring, I will give you an indicator as to whether these have a chance of working with your base.  Because of the way the T-Stick is attached to the base, I do not believe these shafts will work with them.

Funny you should say that. I once tried fitting the shaft from my Happ Super (actually bought directly from IL) to my T-Stik (also bought directly from IL) just to see whether it would work, and it was fine. But I had to use some metal washers as spacers becasue the Super's shaft is slightly longer.

Grasshopper,

Please get me some dimensions.  Specifically, the distance between the bottom of the "knob spacer" and   the top of the nut and/or washer on the bottom side.  Based on the diagram in my Industrias Lorenzo catalog and your description, I'd say there was a real possibility that the Versa-Ball sticks might work with your base.  There are quite a number of possible combinations, so at least one could have a shot.

I would love to be able to purchase one of every stick out there for experimentation, but that's just not possible for me to do at the moment.  So I'll have to rely on the diversity and kindness of the group to provide information so we can compile possible candidates.

Thanks in advance,
RandyT

[spiffyshoes]

so can anyone confirm the material the ball is made of on the ones from RandyT?
Are they the same size as the ones on X-Men/Simpsons etc

The ball top on the Wico joysticks that were used in X-Men/ Simsons / TMNT cabinets were 1-1/2" in thick.  The only two from Randy T that are the same in diameter are the textured kind.  The Shiny ones are about 1/8" smaller.  It tells you the diamater of the Ball when you are selecting them on his website.

[spiffyshoes]

Randy: The E-Clips on the Pac Man Revolution joysticks are 5cm apart and the shaft is 10mm thick.  From the end of the shaft to the bottom of the ball is about 8 cm total.  And the Diameter of the Ball is about 1-1/4" thick.

[RandyT]

Randy: The E-Clips on the Pac Man Revolution joysticks are 5cm apart and the shaft is 10mm thick.  From the end of the shaft to the bottom of the ball is about 8 cm total.  And the Diameter of the Ball is about 1-1/4" thick.

Excellent.  Thank you for the info spiffyshoes!

But just to clarify, are you referring to the Pac-Man Reunion / Galaga  joystick?

Thanks,
RandyT

[spiffyshoes]

Yeah, the Pac Man reunion was the one I was talking about.

[RandyT]

Yeah, the Pac Man reunion was the one I was talking about.

Great.  Thanks. 

Based on this, I have high confidence that the Versa-Ball sticks will indeed work with the Pac Man Reunion/Galaga joysticks.  Both sets of grooves appear to be at the right places, which means installation in either 1/2" or 3/4"+  thick panels should be possible and would extend the height by about 4 cm in either setting.


I'll update the main post with this info.   

RandyT

[pcates]

Randy do you have any that will fit a nintendo joystick? I have a stick for my Donkey Kong that was originally in a metal panel (too short). The stick is only 6mm thick. Can you help???

Patrick

[RandyT]

Randy do you have any that will fit a nintendo joystick? I have a stick for my Donkey Kong that was originally in a metal panel (too short). The stick is only 6mm thick. Can you help???

Sorry Patrick,

I'd like to help, but I don't think the demand would be very high for these.  At best it would be a one-off situation and probably pretty costly to do.

You might want to consider just replacing the whole stick.  Could be a better solution in the long run.

RandyT

[NoOne=NBA=]

RandyT,

I have the critical dimensions on the 49-way sticks.

The measurement from the top of the stick to the stepdown is exactly 4.25".
The larger diameter at the stepdown is .506".
The shaft diameter below the stepdown is .266".
The shaft length from the stepdown to the near edge of the E-clip is 2.53".

I only have the one stick to measure, so I am ASSUMING that Happs tolerances are fairly tight from stick to stick.

[RandyT]

RandyT,

I have the critical dimensions on the 49-way sticks.

The measurement from the top of the stick to the stepdown is exactly 4.25".
The larger diameter at the stepdown is .506".
The shaft diameter below the stepdown is .266".
The shaft length from the stepdown to the near edge of the E-clip is 2.53".

I only have the one stick to measure, so I am ASSUMING that Happs tolerances are fairly tight from stick to stick.

Thanks NoOne!

I'll get something modeled up on those dimensions and see if my machinist can work in a few like this.   I'll let you know how I fare.  While I'm at it, I'll look into the P360's that I have recently aquired dimensions for.

Thanks again,
RandyT

[Minwah]

RandyT,

I have the critical dimensions on the 49-way sticks.

The measurement from the top of the stick to the stepdown is exactly 4.25".
The larger diameter at the stepdown is .506".
The shaft diameter below the stepdown is .266".
The shaft length from the stepdown to the near edge of the E-clip is 2.53".

I only have the one stick to measure, so I am ASSUMING that Happs tolerances are fairly tight from stick to stick.

Do you know if Randy's style shaft without the stepdown will work with the 49-way?  It looks as though the actuator is too small for the shaft to fit through.  Having not (yet) taken mine apart I can't tell if the actuator comes apart or not...

[RandyT]

[Do you know if Randy's style shaft without the stepdown will work with the 49-way?  It looks as though the actuator is too small for the shaft to fit through.  Having not (yet) taken mine apart I can't tell if the actuator comes apart or not...

A stepdown will be required for the lower part.  These would require a special version made just for the 49-ways, but will most likely have the same diameter upper shaft and threads as the current ones.

On a side note, I may have a nicely fitting dust washer solution for an extra dollar if people need one.  The parts will be here in a day or two.


RandyT

[NoOne=NBA=]

Do you know if Randy's style shaft without the stepdown will work with the 49-way?

[SteveJ34]

I ordered one of these with dark red ball top and an Eco 2 "non-solder" version on Wednesday before Turkey Day for a bartop project.

They arrived today in good order.....have not installed them directly yet, just test fitted versa ball to a Happ Super and tested keystrokes on the KeyWhiz Eco2.

I am very pleased with what I see and the level of service received.

Thanks, Randy.

[Goz]

I also ordered on Wednesday and got my package today.

Randy is the man, Thanks for shipping.

I'll be trying out my versa-balls (eww sounds almost nasty) on some supers and a pac reunion tomorrow.

-Goz

[spiffyshoes]

Randy any news on getting the P360 versions yet?  Also how are the dust washers comming?  Will you have a special version for the P360 version of your joystick shaft?

[RandyT]

Randy any news on getting the P360 versions yet?  Also how are the dust washers comming?  Will you have a special version for the P360 version of your joystick shaft?

Dust washers are in and fit the shafts perfectly.  I just need to find a nice finish for them.

Nothing new to report on the other style shafts.  Still in progress.....

RandyT

[quarterback]

I'm just bumping this thread to see if anybody's confirmed that these work in the Ms Pac reunion base.

I'll be trying out my versa-balls (eww sounds almost nasty) on some supers and a pac reunion tomorrow.

[Stingray]

I'm looking at ordering a pair of these to fit a set of Supers. Not sure what length I need. They're going in a metal control panel, so am I correct in thinking that I need the shortest stick (1 1/4)? Why is it that the shiny ball tops only come in 1 3/8?

-S

[RandyT]

I'm looking at ordering a pair of these to fit a set of Supers. Not sure what length I need. They're going in a metal control panel, so am I correct in thinking that I need the shortest stick (1 1/4)? Why is it that the shiny ball tops only come in 1 3/8?

Just so there are no misconceptions, these are designed for under the panel installation on 1/2" to  7/8" thick material.  They can be used with metal, but a spacer will need to be installed ... unless you want really long joysticks   The shorter sticks are specifically for use with the Prodigy 4/8 way switchable joystick system.

The current ball top selection is basically what is available as stock product from manufacturers.  They are very nice ball tops, but the selection is a little limited on the shiny ones.

I have since had custom ball tops professionally manufactured that I'm sure a number of folks will find VERY interesting, but they will  be a bit more expensive than the stock offerings (in the $5 range).

Announcment soon.......

RandyT

[jdjuggler]

I didn't see any comments regarding these sticks working with the P360's?
Anyone know?
Thanks,
JD

[Stingray]

I'm looking at ordering a pair of these to fit a set of Supers. Not sure what length I need. They're going in a metal control panel, so am I correct in thinking that I need the shortest stick (1 1/4)? Why is it that the shiny ball tops only come in 1 3/8?

Just so there are no misconceptions, these are designed for under the panel installation on 1/2" to

[quarterback]

am I correct in thinking that I need the shortest stick (1 1/4)?

How do you figure that 1 1/4 is the shortest stick?  Aren't those measurement options (1-1/4, 1-1/2 & 1-3/8) referring to the size of the ball top?

[Stingray]

I dunno, that's why I asked.

-S

[2600]

Can't wait for the announcement RandyT, hopefully you won't forget about us P360 and happs 49-way owners.   

[quarterback]

I dunno, that's why I asked.

My impression is that all the joysticks are the same length, they just have different diameter spheres on top.   But I also am under the impression that there is some ability to adjust the height depending on which e-clip ring you use.

I don't know what the final height above CP is, but I guess it depends on: Which joystick you're using, which e-clip ridge you use, how thick your CP is and (in a sense) how big the "ball" is on top (because a larger diameter would appear to 'shorten' the stick.)

Maybe there's something on the GGG page (or even in this thread) that has the specs for total length and where the e-clip ridges are cut.  With that (and info about the joystick which will house the stick) you/I/we could figure out exactly how tall they are for any of the above combinations.

I'm just guessing that I'd like one for my MsPac joy which (if mounted under 3/4" wood) will barely clear the top of the CP.  I'd also like one with a 1-1/2 or 1-3/8 ball since the 1-1/4 ball top on the MsPac joy looks like a toy compared to my Wico Leaf ball tops.

[juggle50]

Hey Randy,

I just received the versa-ball shafts that I ordered and although they look very cool I was a little bummed.  I have a quarter inch plywood panel so the stick is too long for me.  I would like my sticks to look completely retro.  I am using a happ super base.  Can send them back to be customized?

Kevin

[RandyT]

Hey Randy,

I just received the versa-ball shafts that I ordered and although they look very cool I was a little bummed.  I have a quarter inch plywood panel so the stick is too long for me.  I would like my sticks to look completely retro.  I am using a happ super base.  Can send them back to be customized?

Kevin

Wow, 1/4" is thin!  The sticks were't designed for that (take a look at the descriptions of the product for specifications on panel thickness.)

However,  too long is a much better problem to have than too short.  One way you can fix this is to make a 5/8 to 3/4" thick spacer that goes between the joystick base and the underside of your panel.  Then just use long enough hardware to go through everything and you'll be all set.

We can't really do a one-off mod to the stick, but I will certainly accept a return on the product if you decide that it doesn't suit your needs.

Just let me know what you would like to do.

RandyT

[whammoed]

Wow, 1/4" is thin!

[RayB]

Or design the shaft so that the e-clip can go on in two locations. One to make it short, one for long.

[RandyT]

Wow, 1/4" is thin!  The sticks were't designed for that (take a look at the descriptions of the product for specifications on panel thickness.)

This wording from the description:

Or maybe you felt left out in the cold because you had a 3/4" or 1/2" thick panel and because you mount your sticks below, the handles are either too stubby or too long?


may lead some to believe there is an ability to have a shorter handle than is possible.  A few details on the height above the joystick installed may help eliminate some confusion.

Not to be argumentative, but the above quoted sentence is accurate, even though out of context with the rest of the description. Also, you may want to note that the emphasis in your quote was yours, not mine.

This is what I was referring to above:

"The Versa-ball shafts are designed for use with "under the panel" joystick installations on panels of 1/2" to 7/8" in thickness."

But stuff happens, and I understand that sometimes the details get missed.

There are so many combinations of CP thicknesses, Ball Sizes, Joystick base varieties, etc, it would be a massive undertaking to try to give exact  dimensions for every possible combination.  This is why the description states "There are 2 height selections optimized for an approximate 2-inch height to the bottom of the ball."   As with just about anything I sell, if it's not what you expected and it's still new, send it back for a refund.  We don't want anyone to be unhappy with their purchase.

Or design the shaft so that the e-clip can go on in two locations. One to make it short, one for long.

Read the above part about "2 height selections"

The limits of adjustability have been reached with the VersBall shafts, unless you like seeing the e-clip grooves above your panel (I guessed that most wouldn't when I designed them.)

RandyT

[whammoed]

Not to be argumentative, but the above quoted sentence is accurate, even though out of context with the rest of the description. Also, you may want to note that the emphasis in your quote was yours, not mine.

Done.  Just trying to emphasize where someone might get confused, I admit I never thought it was meant for a pacman style shorty stick.

"The Versa-ball shafts are designed for use with "under the panel" joystick installations on panels of 1/2" to 7/8" in thickness."

[whammoed]

Also, I will be testing them on the ms pac reunion sticks as soon as I get my order of sticks in.  I'll let you know how it goes.

[RandyT]

Yeah, I was just trying to come from the perspective of someone reading the website only.  Don't see this in the description on your site.

Right you are.  Sometimes I take for granted that some folks don't come through here to get to the store (even though we are talking about it here in the context of this thread )   But your point is taken.  I'll update the description at the store with more of the important info from the beginning of this thread.

Also, I will be testing them on the ms pac reunion sticks as soon as I get my order of sticks in. I'll let you know how it goes.

Very cool.   

Thanks,
RandyT

[juggle50]

Hey guys,

thank you for your quick response.  To be honest I did get the impression that the sticks would be adaptable for my needs, however, I didn't spend much time looking at the details because I was pretty excited about the stick.

My control panel is thin because I'm using a coctail cab so the control panel is also quite small.  I don't think a spacer will work very well because I believe the joystick will probably be really long and hit the bottom panel.

I'm thinking about (and this may be a question for another thread) going the Ms. Pac reunion route, however, these are my questions.
1.  Will the reunion base match the happ super base in terms of mounting screws. (My control Panel is pretty permanent)
2.   Will the reunion shaft be way to short since I'm using a quarter inch panel instead of a metal panel.
3.    Any other options to get a pac shorty stick on my exsisting panel?
Again, thank you very much for your help.  Randy, I probably would like to return the sticks (although they would be awesome for most aplications) How would I go about doing that?

[whammoed]

OK, heres the news on the versaball and Ms Pac base:
Really good news for everyone except those that want a really short stick on a metal panel. (you will need to use a spacer)
The versaball fits on the Ms Pac four different ways.
1.

[Kremmit]

Folks wanting these to be shorter can do the job with a cut-off wheel on their Dremel tool pretty easy.  Figure out how tall you want it to be, cut off the excess from the bottom, and cut two new e-clip grooves.  Done!

[RandyT]

Again, thank you very much for your help.  Randy, I probably would like to return the sticks (although they would be awesome for most aplications) How would I go about doing that?

No problem..  E-mail me and we can get it taken care of .

OK, heres the news on the versaball and Ms Pac base:

Nice work.  I'm guessing they just arrived ? 

Should help a lot of folks who had questions about them working with these bases. Thanks.

But I was curious as to the plastic spacer.   Do they feel ok without this?  The taper on it makes me think it might be part of a gimble or something.

Randy, feel free to use the pic if you want or let me know if you need something different.

Thank You,.  I've saved a copy for future reference.

Randy: does the ball unscrew from the shaft if needed?

Yes, but I twist them on pretty well.

RandyT

[whammoed]

But I was curious as to the plastic spacer.

[quarterback]

OK, heres the news on the versaball and Ms Pac base:

Is this the 1 3/8" dark red shiny Versa-Ball?

Also, it looks like there a ridge around the 'equator' of this ball top.  Is there?  Can you feel it?
Thanks

[whammoed]

OK, heres the news on the versaball and Ms Pac base:

Is this the 1 3/8" dark red shiny Versa-Ball?

Also, it looks like there a ridge around the 'equator' of this ball top.

[spidermonkey]

I've made extra grooves by putting the joystick shaft into a drill chuck just as you would a bit. I then *carefully* clamp the drill down in a vise. I then engage the trigger lock so that the drill stays running. I then make a mark where I want my groove and take a fine tooth hacksaw just hold it down on my mark and let the drill do the work for me. Keep trying the e-clip several times during the process so that you don't cut any deeper then necessary. Lastly I take a fine piece of emery cloth and buff off the burrs while its still spinning in the drill. Thats it.

[JODY]

Original Ms. Pacman / Galaga reunion stick.
Old and new handle pic.

[JODY]

Stick with new handle.
Pic showing how noticeable the new e ring is with the original dust washer.

I'll get new dust washers (Randy T sells them) or put the original black e ring on.  As noted in other threads, the dust washer for these sticks have a hole that is too big.  The new shiny e ring is very obvious with the big hole.

[quarterback]

Looks sweet.  Are you diggin' the translucent balltop, JODY?

[JODY]

Yeah, they are nice.  Got one red and one blue.  My kids think they are very cool.

[SaiNRuB]

Oh wow Jody that looks awesome, I could really go for a Charms POP right now

[juggle50]

Are the actuall ball tops interchangable on the versa and reunion?

[whammoed]

Are the actuall ball tops interchangable on the versa and reunion?

Nope, tried.  Thread size is different.  Versa is 3/8" and Ms Pac is 5/16". 

[jmelan]

for anyone who has already purchased one of these:

how is the gameplay on the Ms. Pacman / Galaga reunion stick with the new handle? 

I would like to purchase one of these to enable me to mount the joystick under a wood panel, but I am worried that these replacement handles may add an unnecessary amount of height (1.5 inches added height versus the .75 inches normally added by a wooden CP plus plexi)

[JODY]

for anyone who has already purchased one of these:

how is the gameplay on the Ms. Pacman / Galaga reunion stick with the new handle?

[JODY]

Just did another measurement in relation to my Happ competition sticks.  The height of the reunion stick with the new handle is exactly the height of the competition sticks.  I was surprised...it looks taller...but the ball on top makes it appear top heavy.

[spllbnd2]

Randy T
 Curious if these will work with the p360's. I thought I'd seen where you were going to test fit them on a p360. Any word as of yet?

[JODY]

I've got one I can check.  My understanding though is that the P360 uses Wico size handles and they won't work.  I'll double check.

[JODY]

Randy T
 Curious if these will work with the p360's. I thought I'd seen where you were going to test fit them on a p360. Any word as of yet?

[JODY]

BTW - Just thought I'd mention that every time I pull out another type stick and compare the parts that came with it to what Randy's product comes with there is a big difference.  His parts really are industrial duty.

[spllbnd2]

Thanks Jody for the confirmation that these will not work. I would have hated to buy them to find out they don't.

[evlbeaver]

RandyT,
Can you just order the ball tops?  My bright red's came yesterday and I dont really care for the size of the ball.  They are a bit smaller than those in my Wicos.