alternative method to slot-cutting for t-molding?

[katuuuz]

Building a tiny 2'8" upright.  Is there a different way I could slot-cut my side panels for t-molding?  Don't want to buy a router or dremmel and bits for such a small project.  hammer and chisel?  anyone ever try this or have another method?  

[upprc04]

Maybe Harbor Freight for a cheap router?  I don't have much experience with them, but if you really don't want to spend money for a small project the price might be right.

[orchidius]

I guess you have one more option, but that would probably mess up so many wood it would've been cheaper to buy a router in the end... I guess you could use a disc-cutter with a very narrow blade to try it (if you have that). But again, the chances of that working out for you are near to nothing...

Another option is renting a router. I don't know where you're at, but in Belgium we have 2 big companies that rent every thinkable tool. That would cost you a fraction of the price of a new one but it would do the trick.

Borrowing one from a friend isn't an option? It's one of the most common tools in any workshop, so...

Lastly I'd like to second upprc04's post. If you put some searchwork into it, you can find routers out there for 50$ or maybe even less (you gotta love china ). They won't last you a lifetime, but certainly long enough for this project and a couple more to come. And a router always comes in handy...

[katuuuz]

thank you for your replies upprc and orchidius.

I guess you have one more option, but that would probably mess up so many wood it would've been cheaper to buy a router in the end...

actually, I could fail on numerous boards before buying a router would be more cost efficient. I'm no cheap-skate, it's just the fact that I live in a 700 sq ft apt, which is why this cabinet is so small to begin with.  Though I'd love to make more and more larger scale cabinets, I literally can't fit anything more than this where I dwell.  If I have any residential problems , i just call the super, so buying a router would solely be for this project and in my eyes, not worth it. 

I'm unaware of a place I can rent a router from.  I live in Wallingford, Connecticut.  Our Home Cheapo doesn't rent routers, and our Lowe's doesn't rent anything.  Do you think I could buy a router from HD, quickly make my slots, and return it as a Christmas gift I got two of?  lol.

This thing is only 2.8 feet tall remember, which is about up to the bottom of my jeans pocket when I'm standing.  I've attached a pic of the small and very basic design I have cut out of the wood.  The lines in red show where I'll need slots cut on the 2 side panels.  I still haven't tried to mess with this in hopes someone will say "yeah for such a small area of slot cutting to be done, just use a *blank*. 

Maybe I will try to use and return the home depot router.  I did find a 1/16" slot cutting bit with an arbor on groovy games gear for only $20! 

[gryhnd]

Try a Taylor Rental Center? There's probably one in your town..they seem to be everywhere.

But, if you ask your friends, you'll likely find someone who has a router, or knows someone who does. Give 'em a six pack or a few bucks and I bet you could have it done easily.

[katuuuz]

Ok, I gave in and ordered the slot cutting bit and arbor, along with 6 micro leaf switches from groovy game gear.  (If you haven't seen these awesome switches, I highly advise checking it out... perfect for the old vertical games).

http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=71&products_id=309

Turns out my friend's got a good dremel, so I'll have to use his ghetto plastic sleeve attachment that is used for grouting to countersink and slot cut my panels.  Didn't want to try and use this combination of tools, but with the slot cutter and arbor priced at $20 on the above site, it's worth a shot.

I'll be starting a project announcement thread as soon as I finish collecting items.  I still need to print up some DK style coin insert stickers for above the coin mech, and purchase the nintendo style coin mech itself from arcadeshop.com, god-willing they have them in stock.

until then, thanks for you're contribution in brainstorming.

[NoBullMAME]

I think you did the right thing by buying the slot bit. But I thought I'd share this for anyone else who's foolish (or skilled) enough to try it.

I once cut my slot using a circular saw. My router died in the middle of the night and I had a project I had to finish.
I lined up about 4 pieces of PB and clamped them together with wood clamps. Then clamped them (on their side) to a sturdy table (as I recall it was hard to get them straight).

I use a chalk line to mark the wood and I slowly cut the slot with my circular saw.

The line wasn't perfect, but I used 7/8th t-molding, so it worked. As I recall, I had to glue the t-molding in a few places, where the cut was too wide. I wouldn't try it with 3/4 inch molding, as the barb tends to be a little skinnier and you'd have to be spot on.

Anyway, I wouldn't recommend it, but it thought I'd mention it.

[katuuuz]

I think you did the right thing by buying the slot bit. But I thought I'd share this for anyone else who's foolish (or skilled) enough to try it.

I once cut my slot using a circular saw. My router died in the middle of the night and I had a project I had to finish.
I lined up about 4 pieces of PB and clamped them together with wood clamps. Then clamped them (on their side) to a sturdy table (as I recall it was hard to get them straight).

I use a chalk line to mark the wood and I slowly cut the slot with my circular saw.

The line wasn't perfect, but I used 7/8th t-molding, so it worked. As I recall, I had to glue the t-molding in a few places, where the cut was too wide. I wouldn't try it with 3/4 inch molding, as the barb tends to be a little skinnier and you'd have to be spot on.

Anyway, I wouldn't recommend it, but it thought I'd mention it.

I appreciate the insight. I had hoped people would share their detailed experiences using alternative tools/methods in trying to achieve the slot cut.   I just don't think you should be referring to me, or anyone else on this forum as "foolish."

[NoBullMAME]

I appreciate the insight. I had hoped people would share their detailed experiences using alternative tools/methods in trying to achieve the slot cut.   I just don't think you should be referring to me, or anyone else on this forum as "foolish."

Actually, I was referring to me as behaving foolishly. Once you realized no one had an sure-fire alternative you got the right tool for the job. I can see how it could come off that way though; so for the record, the comment was aimed at me, not at you. Hope I didn't offend.

[NoBullMAME]

Sorry, double post--mod, please delete (only mods can delete her, right)?

[katuuuz]

All good man.  I appreciate you reiterating.  And you're no fool for trying that, had it worked you'd be just the opposite.

I bet Brn Franklin looked like a fool flying a kite in a lightning storm, and look where it got him.

[melvinbates]

I've done similar with a table saw, but wouldn't recommend it.  The right tool can certainly help to make it easier and safer.

[mgb]

I'm in West Haven.
If you need to borrow a router, I have a 1/4" trim router that you can borrow. Its small and easy to use.

[katuuuz]

Hey man, that is very nice of you.  Glad to see a neighbor on here.  Na I should be o.k., going over that buddy's house tomorrow to use his dremel tool.  should do the job just fine. 

if it doesnt work out i'll let you know

[mgb]

ok.
good luck with the project.