Ledger board and inside laminate

[aspire]

I have just completed laminating both sides of my arcade panels. The panels were made from 5/8 mdf and the laminate was bonded using 1/16 arborite and contact cement.
Next step is to attach the ledger board. Is it necessary to remove the section of laminate on the inside panels where the ledger board goes? I had planned to use 1x2 pine, glue and screw approach but not sure it would stick or be durable overtop the laminate.  My current thinking is that I need to make a template and use a router with the right bit to expose the wood underneath. is this the right approach? Looking for some advice and not sure what router bit i would use for this...

[sleong]

I have just completed laminating both sides of my arcade panels. The panels were made from 5/8 mdf and the laminate was bonded using 1/16 arborite and contact cement.
Next step is to attach the ledger board. Is it necessary to remove the section of laminate on the inside panels where the ledger board goes? I had planned to use 1x2 pine, glue and screw approach but not sure it would stick or be durable overtop the laminate.  My current thinking is that I need to make a template and use a router with the right bit to expose the wood underneath. is this the right approach? Looking for some advice and not sure what router bit i would use for this...

I have done both ways before no on an arcade cabinet but other furniture.  But if you do glue on top of the arborite make sure you drill pilots holes first or your arborite will crack.

I found both ways the bond was fairly strong and was able to hold the weight.  Just make sure the arborite has a good contact with the wood material.  Like make sure there are no air bubbles and that the arborite has a good bond.

That is my experience.

Steve