Mounting plates

[Shieldwolf]

I have seen  examples of cps without mounting plates for spinners and trackballs. Is there a reason to have a mounting plate?  Are the plates on the example cps just flush with the cp so they can't be seen?

[u_rebelscum]

I have seen  examples of cps without mounting plates for spinners and trackballs. Is there a reason to have a mounting plate?  Are the plates on the example cps just flush with the cp so they can't be seen?

Mounting plates make mounting arcade TBs much easier on wood CPs than without them.  Arcade TBs are designed to be mounted on 1/16" (old style) or 3/16" (new "gloden tee" style) pieces of metal, not 3/4" or 1/2" pieces of wood.  Those mounting plates are the thin metal like the arcade TBs are designed for.

Others have mounted without mounting plates:  

• Spinners, like http://www.oscarcontrols.com/ used to come in both mounting plate and non-plate models, but I think most of them are now plate-less.  
• Non-arcade TBs don't have a standard plate to mount with, so most of those are plate-less.  
• As for arcade TBs, there are a few ways so you don't need a mounting plate.  
  • Use a metal CP,
  • mount it directly to plexi/lexan tops instead of a metal plate,
  • or bottom and/or side mount.
  The last one can also be aided with laminate glued on the top; I can't remember exactly who did this method but you can search the forum (increase days to ~350)

[AlanS17]

If someone mounted directly to lexan (I was considering this idea though I hate the look of crriage bolts), how sturdy would it be?

[skirge66]

the happs mounting plate I have has no visible carriage bolts, and if you recess the plate 1/16" you can cover it up with art, laminate, or anything else and it is invisible.

[Shieldwolf]

That's a good idea, I wonder about recessing the plate, but I was afraid it would hinder gameplay somehow.

[night]

the happs mounting plate I have has no visible carriage bolts, and if you recess the plate 1/16" you can cover it up with art, laminate, or anything else and it is invisible.

which plate exactly ?
and high ball or normal?

[AlanS17]

I'm going to be using the Happ flat-top mounting plate (don't know the real name for it) and I'll be recessing it. It seems to be the most professional way to do it. I know Bob Roberts sells them on his site, too.