Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum

Main => Woodworking => Topic started by: r32 on February 05, 2010, 02:36:35 pm

Title: What type of wood for base and interior support?
Post by: r32 on February 05, 2010, 02:36:35 pm

I'm not sure how to build the base. I've studied some pics and some look like 2x4's jointed and squared up. Others look a bit different.

I'm wondering:

1. What kind of wood do I use for the base?
2. What kind of wood should I use for internal support pieces?

Also, is everyone using caster? Some of the cabinets look like they have a flat base. Any ideas and/or suggestions welcome. Most likely, my cabinet will be on carpet or tile floor.

Thanks!

Title: Re: What type of wood for base and interior support?
Post by: fixedpigs on February 06, 2010, 11:01:38 am

3/4 mdf or plywood would treat you nice...it's certainly strong enough to not need any other kind of internal support or bracing from a 2x4 framework...

a monitor shelf could easily be supported by a strip of wood on either side affixed by screws and glue...

 :cheers:

Title: Re: What type of wood for base and interior support?
Post by: javeryh on February 08, 2010, 12:59:41 pm

Yes.  Modern glue is unbelievably strong.  Plywood is all you need for the entire cabinet.  Some people build frames out of 2x4s but that's not necessary, IMO.  It might be a bit easier and give you peace of mind though (a 27" monitor is HEAVY)!

Title: Re: What type of wood for base and interior support?
Post by: Michigan Classic Arcade on March 13, 2010, 10:50:41 pm

We make our bases out of wood instead of MDF. Because MDF is not really sturdy, corners damage quickly when dropped on the floor. When done sanding it I attach it to the underside of the cabinet with wood-glue and screws from the inside of the cabinet.

Sample Photo:
(http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll117/maxelll3752/base.jpg)

Title: Re: What type of wood for base and interior support?
Post by: Nacimroc on March 14, 2010, 09:37:41 am

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Title: Re: What type of wood for base and interior support?
Post by: johncl on March 24, 2010, 07:04:54 am

Hi, its cool to see you made your DK scratch build blog into a business although a bit baffled why there is no link to your Michigan Classic Arcade from your blog:

http://donkeykongarcade.blogspot.com (http://donkeykongarcade.blogspot.com)

If I had been in USA and around Michigan I guess I'd buy one of those Donkey Kong cases as I see its going to take some skill getting the side plate profiles right. MDF is certainly the best way to go from what I hear although some swear to beech plywood.

Title: Re: What type of wood for base and interior support?
Post by: johncl on March 25, 2010, 03:06:26 am

Hm, I see now that that the blog is from someone in Europe. Why are you consistently using Barrys pictures in your postings and the guide you are selling on ebay. Have you bought rights to use them?