Yet another Noob question about Plexi

[steve_pss]

Well, following advice on here I have finally NOT ruined and/or almost killed myself drilling/cutting a sheet of Plexi.

I sandwiched the Plexi between my spade bit drilled CP and a another piece of material, used a hole saw in reverse and it worked great.

Here's the question:
I plan to through bolt my joysticks with 1/8" by 1" machine screws (1/2" MDF and 1/8 inch Plexi) but.. considering how easy this stuff cracks will the bolts being bolted to the plexi top cause it crack once it tighted down and people are beating on the joysticks?

[RandyT]

Whatever you do, be generous with the size of the bolt clearance hole in the plexi.  If it's too tight around the bolt, any stressing wil cause it to crack.

I'd suggest at least an extra .020-.030 in diameter.

RandyT

[steve_pss]

maybe i should just drill a large enough hole so the head bolts to the MDF and not the plexi?

[RandyT]

maybe i should just drill a large enough hole so the head bolts to the MDF and not the plexi?

Not necessary and it might look funny.  Also a place for crud to collect  

Just give the holes a little slop and don't over tighten the heads and you shouldn't have any problems.  Some nylok nuts can help you keep things snug without being too tight as well.

RandyT

[steve_pss]

Thanks man, just can't imagine having to cut ANOTHER piece..

Tho I am getting pretty good at it.  Just wait till you see my NEXT cab!