Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum

Main => Woodworking => Topic started by: borals on March 07, 2011, 10:58:27 pm

Title: Cutting Monitor Hole/Bezel on a Cocktail cab
Post by: borals on March 07, 2011, 10:58:27 pm

Howdy,

I have a cocktail cab that only has a hole cut for a 14" monitor that I need to enlarge for a 19".

What is the best way to do this, jigsaw? Router? What do other people do, and how do you keep it straight?

Also, once I have the hole cut would it look good if I then used an edger bit to make it look " bezeley"? I wont be installing a popper bezel.

Edge bit Like this:
(http://www.apworkshop.com.au/images_router/ChamB.jpg)

Title: Re: Cutting Monitor Hole/Bezel on a Cocktail cab
Post by: eds1275 on March 08, 2011, 02:04:04 pm

I personally would make a template out of scrap mdf and then use that with a router.

Title: Re: Cutting Monitor Hole/Bezel on a Cocktail cab
Post by: alarsuel on March 08, 2011, 02:31:55 pm

I would do the same, but here is more detailed info (if that is what you need):  I would trace the opening I wanted on a scrap piece of MDF.  If you have nothing to trace, then take measurements and transfer those lines to the mdf.  Drill holes in the corners large enough to get your jigsaw into and cutout the pattern, just proud of the lines.  Use a sander to sand down to the lines fine tuning the piece until it is exactly how you want it.  Take that template and clamp it to the piece you want to cut out making sure it is plumb and level.  Use your router and a flush trim bit to cut out the cabinet matching the MDF.  A 45 degree chamfer would be a nice detail as long as you have a decent plan for finishing the visible edge of material.

Title: Re: Cutting Monitor Hole/Bezel on a Cocktail cab
Post by: Donkbaca on March 08, 2011, 03:13:58 pm

Easy

Draw your straight lines on the bottom of your piece. Next, screw in some 2x2 or whatever lumber you have that has a straight edge so the edges line up with the lines. Use a flush trim bit with your router. The bearing on the bottom will follow the edges of the screwed in wood. When you are done, remove screws

Title: Re: Cutting Monitor Hole/Bezel on a Cocktail cab
Post by: borals on March 08, 2011, 04:43:33 pm

Cheers guys, will get this done tonight.

Appreciate it!

Title: Re: Cutting Monitor Hole/Bezel on a Cocktail cab
Post by: edub on March 18, 2011, 02:59:45 pm

Donkbaca,

Is that how you route out your CP as well? For things like undermount joysticks and trackballs? Draw lines on the bottom, screw in straight wood pieces, use a flush trim bit at the exact depth you need and then route away?

I am NOT a router guy - so I'm looking for the easiest and simplest solution to use for my CP. And, I plan to practice on scrap wood a few times to get the hang of it before I butcher my real CP.

Thanks,
edub

Title: Re: Cutting Monitor Hole/Bezel on a Cocktail cab
Post by: Donkbaca on March 18, 2011, 03:47:01 pm

I am top mounting my joysticks.  I drill out the holes, position my mounting plate so its centered and draw an outline around it.  I use a straight bit set just slightly higher than the mounting plate to account for the depth of the screws, then I route out the top recess and cut a hole for the rest of the joystick.