The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls

Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: acvieluf on October 17, 2015, 09:16:13 pm

Title: First project - old Zaxxon Cab **COMPLETE!**
Post by: acvieluf on October 17, 2015, 09:16:13 pm
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=365798;image)


Hey all, as most of these posts start, i've been reading here for a long time reading and soaking up info, and now i've taken the leap. 

I began working on an old computer, setting up mame, a viable front end, and sorting through ALL THOSE ROMS.  After all that was settled and i realized i could do it, i told my wife what my plan was. XD   While i was planning on building my own cab (with only amateur woodworking skills), I spotted an gutted Zaxxon cab for sale in the Halifax area, and scooped it up for $40.  Got it home with the help of my brother in law, and the work was on!

The plan is 2 players plus a track-ball.  I have two different plans for the CP, the expensive way (that i much prefer), using all Ultimarc controls, including the mag stick pros, to have 4-8 way switchable.  The cheap way is the x-arcade build it yourself.  The more i think about it, i think i'll just end up picking up what i need a little at a time.

Here's a pic of the cab when i brought it home (and removed the broken and burnt-in screen)
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on October 17, 2015, 09:23:47 pm
The first step was stripping out the old wiring and LOTS of internal cleaning (that thing was GROSS!).  I'm ok with mechanical things, so the least intimidating starting point was the coin mechs.  The back side of them were pretty good, so instead of breaking down and repainting what no one would see, i just broke it down half-way, cleaned it all up with a wire brush, and put it back together.

I stripped the front plates down to bare metal, cleaned up everything, and repainted them.  I decided to leave the coin return doors bare metal, just cause i thought they looked nice that way. 

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on October 17, 2015, 09:28:42 pm
After tons of patching and sanding of rough wood, broken wood, etc.  I couldn't plan any further until i had made sure the TV was going to fit. Before i bought the cab, i had a 27 and a 24 inch TV.  The 24 fits so perfect, that i don't have to cut the back, or angle the TV any more.  I have to take it back out to finish patching, sanding and painting (those details later), but the mock-up sure gets me pumped again!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: tomstewdevine on October 20, 2015, 09:47:45 am
Looks like the start of a fun project.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on December 11, 2015, 06:40:13 am
I've tackled the coin door!  I wanted to use the coin mechs still, rather then have a button for coins. (I would just keep an amount of quarters in the machine, so that my guests are playing for free, but it doesn't FEEL like it.) That being said, it means that i would need regular access to the coin bins.  So i made a door out of some lightweight wood (pine). And made a door that could be opened and shut easily.  I was actually quite proud of myself for this idea and execution, cause i usually suck at this sort of thing. 

There are magnets in the door's panel, and metal brackets for them to grab when it's shut.  It's a perfect amount of grip, too.

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on December 11, 2015, 06:42:39 am
I also finished my ULTRA MEGA CHEAP monitor bezel.  It's almost perfectly cut, with the only gaps to be fixed via electrical tape.  I can get away with this due to the smoked plexiglass that goes in front of the monitor.  I don't have a picture with the plexi on, because it's so dirty right now, i just won't bother until later.

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on December 11, 2015, 06:46:21 am
I almost forgot that here's my color inspiration.  The originals all had black vinyl art on a brown cab, ugh.  So I will be using the original art, on a black cab, with blue t-molding.  The CP will have elements of blue, red, and white, just as the original Zaxxon art had.  I'm thinking it will all tie together really well.

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: wp34 on December 11, 2015, 10:43:13 am
I like the color scheme you have chosen. Keeping the original art and color scheme is good--sans the brown.

You might find that two players plus a track ball is a little tight on that cabinet.  Have you done a mock-up or anything yet?
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on December 11, 2015, 11:28:43 am
I actually started a mockup last night on cardboard, using those print-outs. I was beginning to think the same thing. Not sure yet though.

My first thought was, maybe I don't need six buttons per player, maybe just 4 will suffice. As far as I can tell, the only games that would keep me out of is fighting games. That's not the end of the world, but it'd be nice to have some of those. So we'll see, I suppose. I'll post a pic of the mockup when I finish it up tonight.

Thanks for the input!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on December 11, 2015, 03:16:56 pm
Heres the main layout (no player/admin buttons, but there's plenty of room up top).

It LOOKS to me like it may work, but i'd really like some feedback, if you're reading this.  not enough room on the sides?  Not enough room underneath?  The joysticks and buttons are centered on the mark of 2 inches from the edge.

Let me know what you think.  And at my daughters request, she really wants to pick an emoji, so she chooses...  :angry:   haha

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: JDFan on December 11, 2015, 03:51:53 pm
HAve you measured the bases of the player 2 joystick and the trackball (from the pic it looks like it will be a tight fit in that space for a joystick base and the trackball base and you can't overlap them !) - The trackball bases are pretty big so you need to be sure you have enough space there before cutting.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (feedback request)
Post by: wp34 on December 11, 2015, 03:55:19 pm
LOL - daughters are all the same.   :cheers:

JDFan is right.  The trackballs are wider (and deeper) than you might expect.  I had some issues with my first CP not taking that into account.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (feedback request)
Post by: acvieluf on December 11, 2015, 08:27:46 pm
I'll check that out. Thanks guys.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 11, 2015, 09:50:00 pm
Also note the alternative positions of the Joysticks on those slagcoin layouts, you can cheat them closer to save space.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: danny_galaga on December 12, 2015, 07:51:21 pm

Nice work so far!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: kjeffery on December 14, 2015, 01:02:38 pm
im restoring one myself, i am also wrapping it in black vinyl. I just redid the control panel on mine
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on December 29, 2015, 07:57:32 pm
im restoring one myself, i am also wrapping it in black vinyl. I just redid the control panel on mine

Nice!  I have to admit though: Since i bought this cab, i have tried and tried to like the actual game Zaxxon.  Try as I might, i cannot.  I still have it in my group of MAME games, and will play it from time to time.  But I don't think i'll ever come around to enjoying that one.  (I never played it as a kid, either, so I don't have any help from nostalgia, haha)
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on December 29, 2015, 08:07:03 pm
So, here's where i open myself up to some ridicule i think. But in light of the OP here: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,148539.0.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,148539.0.html) , I will show my ineptitude for the sake of others.  I'm very new and inexperienced, so be gentle.  :lol

I have never worked with Bondo before, so I was quite intimidated to learn how on this first try.  The bottom rear corners of the cabinet were REALLY rough.  I trimmed them to match the shape of the panels behind them, which helped some.  But there were giant chunks missing on each corner.  I chickened out on the Bondo, and went with dry wall mud.  I did layer by layer, so it didn't bubble and crack. It didn't turn out TOO bad, but it wasn't greatness, either.   The photos follow:

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on December 29, 2015, 08:11:07 pm
For some of the smaller gashes, i filled in using JB Weld epoxy putty.  I would've preferred to use this on the bottom corners, but that damage was too big.  A pic of the rear side:

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on January 21, 2016, 09:10:06 pm
A new update!  First of all, it's painted!  There are a few spots that i plan on sanding and repainting a bit, but overall i like it.  Here's a pic of the cab as it sits now, so you can see it painted.  That makes such a HUGE difference.  I don't hear my wife complaining about it being as ugly, anymore either.  :lol

EDIT - forgot to mention that after painting, i realized that the kitchen cabinet handle on the coin door HAS to go!  It seemed like a good idea at the time.  Not so much anymore.  I will be finding a better solution for this in the future...
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on January 21, 2016, 09:12:20 pm
Already had the light for this, but had to drill some holes in the casing to make it line up with the holes already in the cab for the original light.  Unfortunately, there was a transformer in the way, so i couldn't mount it perfectly centered.  I could use your opinion: Will this look dumb once a marquee is in place?

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on January 21, 2016, 09:16:39 pm
I also picked up a pair of 6x9 speaker covers for a REASONABLE price, locally.  I chuckle here, because of how it went down.  I get them home, cut a hole in the grill to accommodate the speaker controls, Line it with black fabric to block out any marquee light, and eventually mount it in.  After about 5 minutes of looking at it, i just don't like it.  It curves down too far, IMO.  For now it will do, but i need to find a better solution later.

Here's a pic, but in the picture from the post above (of the whole cabinet), you can REALLY see it protruding from above the monitor.  It doesn't get in the way of the monitor, but it's exactly at my eye level while standing.  We'll see how it feels once stools are introduced.



Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on January 21, 2016, 09:17:45 pm
Coin mechs reinstalled and looking quite dapper if i do say so myself.



Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on January 21, 2016, 09:28:13 pm
Here's the CP i've begun using 3/4" furniture-grade plywood.  First of all, i have to say this is a HUGE learning experience for me.  I am learning how to use my tools, for one.  Even though i've had this circular saw for some time now, i haven't ever used the angling feature, and it took me a few tries to get it (close to) right. 

You can see that the lower piece's angle is a little too steep, and has left a gap.  I have since fastened the two from the back side, and am in the process of filling the gap using wood putty.  We'll see how this turns out.  I don't want to do things shoddy, but would like to be able to patch things if possible.  Again, learning experience for sure. 

Also, i was  :angry: when i made my final cut of the whole thing!  I hadn't had any chipping on either side of my cuts the whole time, so i threw caution to the wind and cut the bottom piece from the opposite side i should have, and lo and behold!  Chips ALL DOWN THE FRONT.  At least the putty works here, too. 

(Also, i do plan on having a friend route a curve on the edge of the top panel, before usage)

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: tomstewdevine on January 22, 2016, 03:45:17 pm
Nice updates, she is coming along, since you don't like the game do you just plan on selling it right away?
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on January 22, 2016, 07:29:23 pm
Oh no way. I was going build my own cab for mame, but saw this one listed for $40 locally. If you see the first post in the thread, I bought it gutted. No remnants of Zaxxon left. I was just going to make it look like Zaxxon because not only is that what it originally was, but the art and colors were GREAT.

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (cabinet rehab stage)
Post by: acvieluf on January 23, 2016, 01:01:33 pm
Here's the CP with the gap filled and smoothed out.  It is waiting a friend to use his router to put a smooth curve on the edge.

I forgot to mention it earlier, but this wood CP is temporary.  This project is only held up by funds, so i am putting this together with wood i had, so that i can make this cab functional.  It will most likely be another year or so until it's complete, due to budget, so i'm just getting it going for the time being. 


Also, just ordered all my controls (minus a trackball) from the playdium arcade, here in Canada.  Of all my searching for frugality, they ended up being the cheapest (while still being quality) on the merit of shipping alone. 

Controls and T-molding both on their way!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP construction)
Post by: acvieluf on January 24, 2016, 05:18:35 pm
im restoring one myself, i am also wrapping it in black vinyl. I just redid the control panel on mine
Here I have been, scouring the Internet for the dimensions of a Zaxxon CP, completely forgetting that there is someone in my own thread that has one! Face palm.

I have a guys that's going to make me one, but I need the dimensions. Would you be able to check that? I would need the width, and length to each bend.

Is that possible? Let me know. Thanks!

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP construction)
Post by: acvieluf on January 26, 2016, 10:46:03 pm
T-molding is on! I know this picture isn't formatted as well as the others, but I'm too excited, so its on my phone.

Controls have arrived, and I have to give a shout out to the playdium store. I ordered on Friday afternoon, selected the cheapest shipping, and it was on my doorstep Tuesday!

Sent from my Atari 2600
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP construction)
Post by: Locke141 on January 28, 2016, 08:08:43 pm
This is coming along nicely.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP construction)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 28, 2016, 08:11:40 pm
Looking  good Nova Scotia!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP construction)
Post by: acvieluf on January 29, 2016, 10:06:16 pm
THANKS! It means a lot. There's some rough edges, and I'll document those as well.

But a quick update, kitchen hardware gone. Replaced with something more discreet.



Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP construction)
Post by: acvieluf on February 03, 2016, 05:17:40 pm
Here's some more progress: CP drilled and wired. I will still have to disassemble the parts to put a basic black vinyl overlay.  It's not perfect, but it was good practice, and a good dry run before the eventual metal CP.

When it goes back together, I'll clean up some of the wiring, as well.


Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP construction)
Post by: acvieluf on February 03, 2016, 05:19:22 pm
And here it is mounted for a dry run. Even played a game of DK3. I need to disassemble this NOW, otherwise, it may never get done! Haha



Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP mounted! No artwork)
Post by: Brizzle on February 04, 2016, 09:32:12 am
HEY!  I actually have the metal control panel from a Zaxxon cab I'm redoing!  Are you interested in it?!  I need to know today, though!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP mounted! No artwork)
Post by: acvieluf on February 04, 2016, 09:40:05 am
Well yes! But I'm on a shoestring, so...how much?

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP mounted! No artwork)
Post by: Brizzle on February 04, 2016, 10:15:13 am
It had been converted to another game, mind you.   How about you just pay for packaging and shipping costs (not service, just my cost)? 

THAT SAID, I also just bought some bondo.  If you would like me to fill the button and joystick holes you won't use, and then paint it, I would do that for a little money for my time so I can have a little hobby money.  I won't price gouge you!  If you want me to wrap it with some brushed aluminum vinyl, we can work that out, too, which you can put your Zaxxon graphic over (or just over the paint.. thought I'd at least offer!).

Thoughts?!

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP mounted! No artwork)
Post by: acvieluf on February 04, 2016, 10:25:32 am
So, in an odd turn, THIS MORNING I found the CP dimensions on eBay. For real. A guy was selling one, and has a picture of him measuring almost every angle.

And just an hour or so ago, my friend who's helping me popped into my office with a piece of stainless steel he picked up just for this!

So for now, I have to pass, but thank you for considering me.

:cheers:

Sent from my Atari 2600
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab (CP mounted! No artwork)
Post by: acvieluf on February 04, 2016, 10:27:28 am
Here's the measurement pics I found, along with some others of the under and top side.


Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on June 15, 2016, 09:40:18 am
Finally!

    I had ordered a metal aluminum panel from a recommended local welding shop.  I did this because i was told that the stainless steel panel i had would be EXTREMELY difficult to drill through without buying a bunch of extra drill bits.  So...I ordered the panel two months ago.  I had to call the shop once a week, to check on it (because each time he told me it would be next week.)  I kept patient, knowing that this was a small job for such an enormous shop, and I wasn't in a hurry. But get this: I gave a cardboard template, and everything about the template was right, except the width, which i not only explained to the boss, but wrote clearly on the panel. 
     I get the call to pick it up, one month and a week after order placed.  When i get there, the guy is smiling, "Doesn't that look nice?"  "Yes, but it's not the right size."  You can see where this is going..."But it matches the cardboard piece!"  Upon further inspection, he ends with, "I guess i took so long i forgot."   :angry:

     Now here we are, almost a month later, and I have the panel.  I have to go in later today to pay, and i will be asking for a discount, for all the rigamarole (sp?)...

     But here she is!  Now i can hand it off to my bro-in-law to start the graphic work.  So basically, i get it, give it away, and probably wait another month.  Oh well.  I'd rather have it done well.  It's nice to have some progress, though. : )

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: harveybirdman on June 15, 2016, 09:44:35 am
Just remember the best part of cabinet building is the journey.  (he says with a tinge of guilt since he's not updated his thread in 5 months)
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on June 15, 2016, 09:45:44 am
Just remember the best part of cabinet building is the journey.  (he says with a tinge of guilt since he's not updated his thread in 5 months)
Haha! Thanks. It certainly makes for lots of stories to make people's eyes glaze over when they're ready to play.  :lol

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on June 15, 2016, 05:18:31 pm
Oh my, it fits PERFECTLY! I actually measured something correctly! It's a Christmas miracle!  :lol


Sent from my Atari 2600
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: ppv on June 17, 2016, 07:54:37 am
Nice write up!  Looking good!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on July 30, 2016, 07:39:42 pm
Got this bad boy installed. This is a smaller task, but is an item of finish that I would've never thought of, had I not read it here first. 

I obviously need to polish up the wood around it. That will come before side art, as I'll make one final pass of imperfections and such.

Sent from my Atari 2600
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on July 30, 2016, 07:43:52 pm
And FINALLY got the marquee installed! I ordered from some UK guys on eBay, as it was $20, instead of $50 +tax locally.

I'm pleased with it for the price. Although upon installation, I put some small air bubbles in it. Argh. Thankfully it's not at all noticeable when on.

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on July 30, 2016, 07:45:30 pm
Pretty soon, my graphic design brother -in-law is moving, and we are taking our 10 year wedding anniversary to help them. In lieu of payment, my response will be: "do my CP art!" Haha

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on September 23, 2016, 08:02:46 am
Here is the first draft of the CP art. I found one VERY similar, but in different colors. I loved the pattern, and knew that he could reproduce it. He matched the colors to the marquee graphic, and cut and pasted the star field graphic from the marquee. He mentioned that it SHOULD be printed this week, and he's having the holes drilled at the shop he works for. All this at NO COST to me!

(I've already given him the proper width of holes needed, and requested that he fills the empty space with the star field graphic.)

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on September 29, 2016, 09:35:32 pm
So...my plexi that covered the screen has always had some deep gashes. Looked like it had been keyed multiple times.

It was $50 to replace it, so I thought I'd just repair it. I had seen some YouTube videos, so "I got this!" Haha

Started with 800 grit, then 1000, then a lot of time with 2000, all wet sanding.

It ended like this before buffing.

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on September 29, 2016, 09:42:42 pm
I have talked to a few different car detailing/glass shops/auto body shops, and got the same answer. "We've never done that, so I don't want to try."

Argh.

So I went to buy the pieces to do it myself, and wouldn't you know it, it was about $50.

Here's the complication: I've got company staying at our house this weekend, so I'm under the gun.

I go to Speedy glass, who got me my marquee plastic. He said $50, I said ok, and bit the bullet, knowing I'd have to explain to the mrs. why I had to spend the money RIGHT NOW, when things are tight.

End result: guy gets my piece cut, says it's $30 if it's cash, or he'll add tax (15%) if he has to put it through the computer. I get out a 20, and say, "this is all the cash I have on me, so unless it's 20, add the tax."

He looks at the piece and says, "ehhh...20s fine."

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on September 29, 2016, 09:43:18 pm
Here's the end result.



Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on November 21, 2016, 02:15:12 pm
     So, my panel is back, and i took some pictures of the hardware that a friend came up with to attach it to the factory hardware.  It was PERFECT.  No adjustments necessary.  Awesome.  I'm on a roll with my measurements  :lol

     The hinges are attached with screws underneath, so the panel can be removed somewhat easily, although i can't imagine needing to.
     
     There are also brackets that the clamps underneath can grab a hold of.  I unfortunately deleted the picture of the top side of the panel where these are attached. The screws are sunk in and flush with the top of the panel.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab CP ART APPLIED! : )
Post by: acvieluf on November 21, 2016, 02:18:11 pm
And what i'm MOST excited about is....ta-da!  artwork installed!  Not to bad, for a first timer.  Thankfully, the vinyl is porous, so the tiny air bubbles will continue to disappear.  If that weren't the case, I certainly would have taken it to a professional.

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: Ian on November 21, 2016, 02:29:38 pm
That CP looks nice and shiny! Good work!  :applaud:
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 21, 2016, 09:35:32 pm
And installed! (More detailed pics to follow. Good AND bad, haha)

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: Titchgamer on November 22, 2016, 08:17:19 am
Looks great :)

Think I would of gone with Blue sticks though.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 08:40:07 am
Looks great :)

Think I would of gone with Blue sticks though.

Thanks.  This color scheme wasn't my first choice, but i really like the way it turned out.  I bought those mag-stick plus' off of someone here.  I was thinking of doing all red for player one, all blue for player two, or vice-versa.  But picking up the two red sticks changed my plans. 

This is my first project, so I have no doubt that there are better ways to do things. haha
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: Titchgamer on November 22, 2016, 08:41:58 am
Just a idea, keep the red sticks and change the middle buttons for red.

Prob fit better :)
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 08:43:21 am
More detailed pics.  First this one. 

The front door of the cab had a metal strip on the top, that didn't QUITE fit under the new panel.  I am at least going to paint the top of that black, but would really want something to close that gap.  Possibly a piece of foam or something.  Advice welcome.

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 08:44:57 am
Heres a pic of the inset screws on the top of the panel.  Visible, not noticeable. 

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 08:50:59 am
And here is my biggest frustration.  The minor air bubbles.  There aren't many, and the guy mentioned that they will disappear over time, so here's hoping.  Just trying to show the bad with the good.

It's probably good to mention the choice of vinyl here as well.  Originally i asked my bro-in-law to make the art, as the plan was to send it away to Game on Graphix to have that real durable laminated stuff.  This was the plan right up until he said he would print the stuff for free.

I wasn't going to cheap out.  I told him no, because i wanted durability.  He replied that this is the same vinyl they wrap their cars with, he laughed at the idea that it would get messed up from hands on it.  Then he said he'd print me TWO copies of it, in case in 5-10 years, this one gets worn.

So, i took his advice.  I am very nervous about it, but did some minor testing when setting it up, and it looks good so far.  (I took the buttons that were tightened down, and turned them vigorously so they would scrape the top, but would cover up the scratches if it damaged it)

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 08:51:35 am
One more from the side:
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 08:52:44 am
Just a idea, keep the red sticks and change the middle buttons for red.

Prob fit better :)

You know what?  That sounds AWESOME.  It's happening. (eventually)  Let me ask you this, if i did that, would white buttons in the 3rd (right hand) row look good?  Or is that too much?
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: Titchgamer on November 22, 2016, 09:09:05 am
Ide stick with blue on the right to match your artwork and colour scheme :)
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 09:14:57 am
Ide stick with blue on the right to match your artwork and colour scheme :)

Right on.  There is some white in that scheme, but i agree with you, just red and blue.

On a side note, i immediately went to order them from a big distributer in Canada (where i got all the controls and t-molding), and they want $40 to ship 4 buttons!  $10 of product, $40 to ship. NO. THANK YOU.  Its amazing that it's cheaper to ship from the UK than it is to ship within Canada.  Argh.  I'll find a cheaper source for Happs then pick some up.

Thanks for the input.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: Titchgamer on November 22, 2016, 09:18:36 am
Holy **** thats crazy!

Well ime in the UK so cant recomend anywhere your side of the pond LOL

But I get most of my stuff from AWUK or Ultimarc.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: yamatetsu on November 22, 2016, 12:07:20 pm
The front door of the cab had a metal strip on the top, that didn't QUITE fit under the new panel.  I am at least going to paint the top of that black, but would really want something to close that gap.  Possibly a piece of foam or something.  Advice welcome.

+1 for painting the top black.

Some possibilities :

- try to find a thinner piece of metal that fits in there, double tape / glue it to the door. I would recommend double taping as this probably will leave a smaller gap than glue. Personally, I don't think that the metal look fits with the rest of the color scheme, so I would paint it black.

- try to find some black weather strip that fits, put it onto the door. There probably will be a slight color mismatch.

- find / make a strip of wood that fits, paint it black, double tape / glue it to the door. I would recommend double taping as this probably will leave a smaller gap than glue.

- if you've got some t-molding left, you could cut off the part that goes into the wood gap and double tape the rest onto the door. This probably will still leave you with a small gap. I would paint a strip of wood black and glue it to the inside of the door so that it stands a bit above the door's top edge, covering the gap from the inside. The gap between t-molding and CP will be there, but it will be black and hardly noticeable.

Last but not least : +1 for the red buttons. Having the buttons and the strips that go 'through' them in the same color just fits.

Oh, and one final suggestion : If you happen to have a spare dustwasher, I'd recommend having your vinyl guy print a piece of 'black starfield' and wrap the dustwasher in it, so that the joystick appears to emerge from the starfield. That way, the joysticks wouldn't stand out so much.
It would be totally awesome to also wrap the bat tops with the starfield, but that is probably asking too much.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: JDFan on November 22, 2016, 12:29:27 pm
On a side note, i immediately went to order them from a big distributer in Canada (where i got all the controls and t-molding), and they want $40 to ship 4 buttons!  $10 of product, $40 to ship. NO. THANK YOU.  Its amazing that it's cheaper to ship from the UK than it is to ship within Canada.  Argh.  I'll find a cheaper source for Happs then pick some up.

Thanks for the input.

Since you are not in a hurry to get them - could always just order some from China - Not sure about there but here in the US it's cheaper to ship from China to the US than to send something across town ! Ebay has several sources for Happ type buttons for about $1.50 each shipped with no minimum Qty. For example here is one for $1.47US. that ships worldwide free ( http://www.ebay.com/itm/Arcade-Push-Buttons-Durable-Multicade-MAME-Jamma-Game-Long-Switch-Mult-color/201532711020?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D38530%26meid%3Dbf2510cd6321426d805444a91b2ed3af%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D322205414273 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Arcade-Push-Buttons-Durable-Multicade-MAME-Jamma-Game-Long-Switch-Mult-color/201532711020?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D38530%26meid%3Dbf2510cd6321426d805444a91b2ed3af%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D322205414273) )
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: Titchgamer on November 22, 2016, 01:43:14 pm
Great idea about the dust washers Yam.
Might do that myself!!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 10:16:25 pm
On a side note, i immediately went to order them from a big distributer in Canada (where i got all the controls and t-molding), and they want $40 to ship 4 buttons!  $10 of product, $40 to ship. NO. THANK YOU.  Its amazing that it's cheaper to ship from the UK than it is to ship within Canada.  Argh.  I'll find a cheaper source for Happs then pick some up.

Thanks for the input.

Since you are not in a hurry to get them - could always just order some from China - Not sure about there but here in the US it's cheaper to ship from China to the US than to send something across town ! Ebay has several sources for Happ type buttons for about $1.50 each shipped with no minimum Qty. For example here is one for $1.47US. that ships worldwide free ( http://www.ebay.com/itm/Arcade-Push-Buttons-Durable-Multicade-MAME-Jamma-Game-Long-Switch-Mult-color/201532711020?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D38530%26meid%3Dbf2510cd6321426d805444a91b2ed3af%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D322205414273 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Arcade-Push-Buttons-Durable-Multicade-MAME-Jamma-Game-Long-Switch-Mult-color/201532711020?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D38530%26meid%3Dbf2510cd6321426d805444a91b2ed3af%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D322205414273) )

Ordered them today! (Will get them in mid January, haha) Thanks for the tip!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 22, 2016, 10:30:24 pm

- try to find some black weather strip that fits, put it onto the door. There probably will be a slight color mismatch.


- if you've got some t-molding left, you could cut off the part that goes into the wood gap and double tape the rest onto the door. This probably will still leave you with a small gap. I would paint a strip of wood black and glue it to the inside of the door so that it stands a bit above the door's top edge, covering the gap from the inside. The gap between t-molding and CP will be there, but it will be black and hardly noticeable.


One of these will be my solution.  You can get a foam weatherstripping just about anywhere here, and it has an adhesive side.  I THINK this will work.  But I do have some extra t-molding, just in the bright blue, so i'm not quite sure about that.  I'll update when i get it done.  Either way it's getting painted black, though.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 28, 2016, 09:38:13 pm
Here's another shot of the CP on its hinge, after the wiring.


Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 28, 2016, 09:41:55 pm
And here's some cable porn. But if this is the cable porn you like, maybe you should see a psychiatrist. XD

I really did try and get it looking nice. This is what I could do. I want to work on this in future projects, as it bothers me, even when the panel's closed. I just know it's messy, haha.


Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 28, 2016, 09:46:07 pm
And finally, not knowing how to attach this board to the metal panel without drilling holes, I used my favorite substance in the world. My duct tape, if you will.  Epoxy putty. Love the stuff, probably too much, lol.

The pins were there while the putty was drying, but I think I'm going to leave them as added security.


Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: Nephasth on November 29, 2016, 01:09:14 pm
Props for going with a metal CP! :cheers:

I'd have gone the weld nut route JBWelded to the CP, then mount the Ipac with machine screws.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on November 29, 2016, 01:46:49 pm
Props for going with a metal CP! :cheers:

I'd have gone the weld nut route JBWelded to the CP, then mount the Ipac with machine screws.

Thanks, and great idea!  I had never even thought of using jb weld that way, but it's genius.  Probably too late for me now, but we'll see how this plays out.  It feels good and solid on there, so i may just leave it.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab ***CP ART APPLIED!***
Post by: acvieluf on February 17, 2017, 10:12:11 pm
On a side note, i immediately went to order them from a big distributer in Canada (where i got all the controls and t-molding), and they want $40 to ship 4 buttons!  $10 of product, $40 to ship. NO. THANK YOU.  Its amazing that it's cheaper to ship from the UK than it is to ship within Canada.  Argh.  I'll find a cheaper source for Happs then pick some up.

Thanks for the input.

Since you are not in a hurry to get them - could always just order some from China - Not sure about there but here in the US it's cheaper to ship from China to the US than to send something across town ! Ebay has several sources for Happ type buttons for about $1.50 each shipped with no minimum Qty. For example here is one for $1.47US. that ships worldwide free ( http://www.ebay.com/itm/Arcade-Push-Buttons-Durable-Multicade-MAME-Jamma-Game-Long-Switch-Mult-color/201532711020?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D38530%26meid%3Dbf2510cd6321426d805444a91b2ed3af%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D322205414273 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Arcade-Push-Buttons-Durable-Multicade-MAME-Jamma-Game-Long-Switch-Mult-color/201532711020?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D38530%26meid%3Dbf2510cd6321426d805444a91b2ed3af%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D322205414273) )
Ordered in November, got them in February! Here they are, a nice touch for sure. As a side note, the eBay seller said they are happ...They are not.  No worries, they still feel nice, and I'm using the same microswitches, so it'll be fine.

Thanks again for the suggestion, JD!
:cheers:

Sent from my Atari 2600

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on October 30, 2017, 10:12:49 pm
The art is finally ordered today, so the end is near!
Besides a few little wrinkles I need to iron out, this is the last little touch I wanted to put on it. This came with the original cabinet, and I like to wire it up, but not sure what functions to assign to it yet.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=363321;image)

I've already thought about future improvements to the cab, but would like to get it to completion first, otherwise it will always be bogged down in a myriad of details.  But one of the things i'd like to eventually change is to replace the computer speakers with a proper 6x9 with a small amp.  If I do that, the amp's volume knob could be placed here, as well.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: harveybirdman on October 31, 2017, 12:13:31 am
I like your cab dude.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on November 03, 2017, 03:25:02 pm
Thanks Harvey! I appreciate it. I can't wait to get that art on! But I will wait. Like, a month, haha.

Sent from my Casio keyboard

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on November 05, 2017, 09:36:18 pm
Heres the integration of the old service panel.  The "Service" switch is TAB for dipswitch settings, while "Reset" is ENTER, to make the selections for the dip switches. 

Not revolutionary, but one of the smaller touches I wanted to add.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=363399;image)
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: flylear45 on November 10, 2017, 10:28:08 am
Nice work and a good looking cab. I personally like that color scheme and graphics, but I HATE that game LOL. Way too frustrating and hard for me.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on November 10, 2017, 10:32:12 am
Thanks for the compliment!

I'm not a fan of the game either. I've grown to like Super Zaxxon ok, but not even too much on that one.



Sent from my Casio keyboard

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on January 11, 2018, 06:32:08 pm
Artwork has arrived! Minor trim needed, as I had to modify the cab itself, due to damage. Think I'll let it hang, and hopefully the folds will come out.

I was a bit surprised to see it come with folds. Will that stretch out ok?

Sent from my car phone

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: mourix on January 12, 2018, 05:42:45 am
I really love how this cab is turning out. The folds are normal, and with some squeegee action it will turn out perfect so don't worry!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: acvieluf on January 15, 2018, 10:43:22 pm
Well, the art is ON. It looks pretty good. I had some noob hiccups, but I recovered each time.  One thing is for sure: any spots in the wood that weren't absolutely perfect, show through. Thankfully, only upon close, intentional examination, so it's not as bad as i'll make it sound.

I painted the cab with a small sponge roller, and alkyd paint (per home depot guy's suggestion). it ended up bumpy, although it looked really good without art.  I never even thought of it.  But the artwork isn't perfectly smooth.  Most will never give the artwork a second look, so it's not the end of the world, but it bugs me.

This has certainly been a learning experience at every turn.

There's one more tweak before I call it done.

EDIT - reedited this post, and wrote a bit more, once I wasn't on my phone. Also, reformatted the photos, and hosted them here, but realized that the closeup i took was only in tapatalk.  whoops. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=364994;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=364996;image)

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: Mike A on January 16, 2018, 06:49:38 am
That's nice work. Looks like everything came together.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: acvieluf on January 18, 2018, 03:52:48 pm
That's nice work. Looks like everything came together.

Thank you sir. It's certainly not perfect, but there's nothing that the average joe would notice, haha.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: Mike A on January 18, 2018, 03:59:47 pm
That is generally how my stuff turns out.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab
Post by: Ian on January 19, 2018, 12:19:08 am
Well, the art is ON. It looks pretty good. I had some noob hiccups, but I recovered each time.  One thing is for sure: any spots in the wood that weren't absolutely perfect, show through. Thankfully, only upon close, intentional examination, so it's not as bad as i'll make it sound.

I painted the cab with a small sponge roller, and alkyd paint (per home depot guy's suggestion). it ended up bumpy, although it looked really good without art.  I never even thought of it.  But the artwork isn't perfectly smooth.  Most will never give the artwork a second look, so it's not the end of the world, but it bugs me.

This has certainly been a learning experience at every turn.

There's one more tweak before I call it done.

EDIT - reedited this post, and wrote a bit more, once I wasn't on my phone. Also, reformatted the photos, and hosted them here, but realized that the closeup i took was only in tapatalk.  whoops. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=364994;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=364996;image)


I was waiting for this one... Nice Job.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: bperkins01 on January 19, 2018, 09:20:58 am
Very Nice work - great restoration there!
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: pbj on January 19, 2018, 10:01:15 am
The T-molding makes that come together.

Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: acvieluf on January 19, 2018, 10:04:09 am
Yessir. It really pops. I can't take credit, since it was already on that toy I posted early on.

Thanks pbj. And everyone else for the kudos.  :cheers:

Sent from my car phone
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: acvieluf on February 13, 2018, 08:50:46 am
Got the audio updated.  Small 2 channel board, 4 ohm resistor inline, to a 6x9 speaker. Not as good of sound as i had hoped, but MUCH better than it was.
Title: Re: Mame rehab - old Zaxxon Cab **side art applied**
Post by: acvieluf on February 13, 2018, 09:08:21 am
Welp, i can now confidently say it is finished. An awesome journey, to say the least. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=365798;image)

Genuine feedback welcome.  ESPECIALLY the negative.  Its pretty easy for me to stand back and say its really cool (because it is, haha :afro:), so if you have any pointers for a possible next time for me, I'd love to hear it.

Here are some things that i've learned along the way:
Things that went right:
1) CRT.  I know its a TV, so it's not arcade perfect.  But i have played Real arcade hardware on LCDs in the midst of building this, and i'm SOOOO glad i didn't go that route.
2) Metal control panel. If you're new and reading this, possibly on the fence about CP material.  GO METAL (if you can). It may not be perfect for all applications, but its a level of excellence that I honestly didn't think i'd reach when i first set out.
3) No frankenpanel.  I'm ashamed to say that when i first discovered this forum, i was thinking 4P frankenpanel.  Yikes.

Things that did not go right:
1) Woodwork. What i THOUGHT was good looking, looked rougher and rougher the more i saw other projects.  ALSO, I didn't think there were any defects under the artwork.  I was wrong.  Even the paint roller pattern showed through, albeit VERY subtly. (and yes, i used a small sponge roller, and Alkyd paint.)
2) I still kind of wish i would've went with a coated CP vinyl.
3) I was usually in too much of a hurry with things.  There was so much waiting between major steps, than when I COULD do something to progress, I was anxious, so I wouldn't go slow.  This led to most of the woodworking issues stated above.  Again if you're new and reading this, TAKE YOUR FREAKING TIME. No matter how excited you are to play games, WAIT.  Go play on your laptop or phone or something.  :lol

Ok, thats enough blabbing on.  Thanks to everyone for input.  And thanks to everyone who i was able to snoop on your thread and learn things. 

 :cheers:
Title: Re: First project - old Zaxxon Cab **COMPLETE!**
Post by: Mike A on February 13, 2018, 09:34:52 am
Nice. CRT was definitely the way to go.

How thick is your aluminum control panel? That would be much easier to deal with than steel.
Title: Re: First project - old Zaxxon Cab **COMPLETE!**
Post by: acvieluf on February 13, 2018, 09:52:47 am
How thick is your aluminum control panel? That would be much easier to deal with than steel.

Hmmm, i'll have to check, as i don't remember, and went with the shop's recommendation.
Title: Re: First project - old Zaxxon Cab **COMPLETE!**
Post by: Mike A on February 13, 2018, 09:56:05 am
Thanks. I have several control panels I need to build. Aluminum would make my life easier.
Title: Re: First project - old Zaxxon Cab **COMPLETE!**
Post by: acvieluf on February 26, 2018, 09:20:46 pm
Nice. CRT was definitely the way to go.

How thick is your aluminum control panel? That would be much easier to deal with than steel.
Sorry for the delay, I forgot that I needed to check.

It's tough to be exact with a layer of art around both sides of the edge, but it looks to be 1.5mm.

Sent from my car phone