Mountain's Bartop Jukebox - Kits now available!!

[mountain]

Hey Mountain, I would pay $300 for a complete kit. I have a 15" ELO in the closet waiting for a jukebox.

Also, where did you get that power button on the back? Does it light up?

In one pick it looks like at first you used just a regular arcade button, but in the finished pics it is a shiny metal start button with power logo. I bought one of those bulgin vandal resitant buttons that light up, but it does not have power logo on it.

Ok thanks and keep us posted on the kit situation,
Deefish

I used a switch similar to an arcade button, only smaller, and swapped it out once I got my hands on the silver one. The silver switch is a Bulgin vandal proof switch that has the logo engraved on it. Pongo may be able to make a power logo sticker for yours.

The Mountain Jukebox kits are being designed now. I am having a hard time deciding how far to take it. The original was designed as a one of a kind without any plans to produce more which is making it quite difficult. I will probably do a basic template kit for the people who want to do a lot of the work themselves. There will be a complete kit with everything needed including the assembled frame and plexi (based on the ELO1545) I am also going to offer one-off builds to people who would rather just pay to have one built. Control panels are planned as well.

Any input from those who may be interested would be great. I plan on making an announcement in the next 7-10 days. 

[Deefish]

I used a switch similar to an arcade button, only smaller, and swapped it out once I got my hands on the silver one. The silver switch is a Bulgin vandal proof switch that has the logo engraved on it. Pongo may be able to make a power logo sticker for yours.

Ahh, dang, I just bought one. Who sells them engraved like that?

Ok, I will watch this thread for updates on the kits.

Thanks Mountain,
Deefish

[reko19]

Mountain,
Could you give me some pointers on flash trimmimg the laminate? I end up scartching or "shaving" a laminate or a plexi every time I use the flash trim bit (the part that is not being trimmed). I ended up tilting a router on my router table about 5-7 degrees. This eleminates the above problem but the trimmed part is not 100% flush, I could feel it with my finger nails. Any advise would be appreciated. Thanks.

[javeryh]

Mountain,
Could you give me some pointers on flash trimmimg the laminate? I end up scartching or "shaving" a laminate or a plexi every time I use the flash trim bit (the part that is not being trimmed). I ended up tilting a router on my router table about 5-7 degrees. This eleminates the above problem but the trimmed part is not 100% flush, I could feel it with my finger nails. Any advise would be appreciated. Thanks.

Use a file to get it flush.

[reko19]

kinda defeats the purpose having to hand-file it after using a router. also, how you avoid scratching the other surface which is at 90 degree angle to the piece being filed?

[mountain]

kinda defeats the purpose having to hand-file it after using a router. also, how you avoid scratching the other surface which is at 90 degree angle to the piece being filed?

I don't think it defeats the purpose. I always expect a little bit of post prep work on every cut I make, whether it is done on a router, table saw, jig saw, etc.  I once visited a custom cabinet shop and watched  how they did it. The the first thing the guy did after laying down the router was reach for his file. I imagine that I spent 1-2 total hours filing the laminate. Plus, it gives the cut edge a very nice sheen for a nice finished look.

One trick I have found is to put a layer of masking tape on the surface perpendicular to the laminate that is being cut. It helps space out the cutting edge, just a hair. Another thing to do is adjust the cutting edge to the thickness of the laminate. There is no need for a 1" cutting area when you are cutting is .040" thick.

Hope this helps.

[reko19]

I think the your last point is basically my biggest mistake. I looked at the flush trim bit last night and there is small gap between the bottom of a bearing and the point where the cutting edge starts. In theory I should be able to adjust the bit so that it only cuts the laminate surface that is being trimmed.

Now when filing the edge I assume you end up with the edge that is not square because the file has to be at an angle to avoid scratching the adjacent surface?

                                     
Basically you get this __/  instead of this _| 

[mountain]

                                     
Basically you get this __/  instead of this _| 

Correct. We're talking about maybe 5 degrees, you can't even see it. Get a very sharp metal file and take long smoth strokes. 

[reko19]

thank you, will give it a shot tonight

great tip, makes a huge difference

[Sparky2323]

Excellent work sir!        Can you tell me where you got the grill material from?  I'd like to use that on the one I'm building now.

[leapinlew]

Excellent work sir!        Can you tell me where you got the grill material from?  I'd like to use that on the one I'm building now.

I should give you a hard time for not reading his thread. So I will.

You comment on his thread like you read it and then you ask a question that he answered already.
Here: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=79817.msg865027#msg865027

Damn kids! GET OFF CHEFFO'S LAWN!

 

[mountain]

  + =   

 

Thanks sparky, thanks Lewis!

[reko19]

speaking of perf metal, what is the best way to cut it?

[Ralman]

speaking of perf metal, what is the best way to cut it?

I used a pair of straight sheet metal cutters/shears for mine, also called snips .  They look like a beefy pair of scissors.  It worked great for me.  The was a little curl and some bending on the edges, but a couple of hits with a hammer along the edges on a workbench top flattened the edges out again.

[mountain]

speaking of perf metal, what is the best way to cut it?

I don't have access to metal working tools, so I improvise. If you are real picky, like me, make two identical shapes out of 1/2" MDF the same shape you want the grill material to be. Sandwich the material between the two and clamp. Use a fine tooth jig saw blade and cut the material close to the edge. Finish it off with a file before removing the clamps. This prevents the material from bending while you cut. It takes longer, but it is worth it.

[reko19]

thanks guys

[Sparky2323]

LOL!  I got scolded.      Thanks for the help leapinlew I honestly looked through every page and just missed it.  Must have been all the pretty pictures!  Mountain you wouldn't happen to remember the specs of the metal that you ordered?  There's a bunch of different options to get and I'd like to get the one you ordered.  Again excellent work!   

[mountain]

LOL!  I got scolded.      Thanks for the help leapinlew I honestly looked through every page and just missed it.  Must have been all the pretty pictures!  Mountain you wouldn't happen to remember the specs of the metal that you ordered?  There's a bunch of different options to get and I'd like to get the one you ordered.  Again excellent work!   

Well, unfortunately, I ordered that stuff years ago for a different project and can't remember the specs. Since the juke is at my Dad's I am unable to measure it. I think that it is something like 1/8" holes in a staggered pattern.

[explorerman]

Mountain,

I wonder if I could make a request for a wiring schematic.  My set up will be very similar to yours and the wiring is definitely not one of my strong points.

Thanks in advance,

Explorerman

[cboy]

Mountain - did you ever anounce your kit for these? Im interested.....

[mountain]

Mountain - did you ever anounce your kit for these? Im interested.....

Yes, I am still planning on selling kits. I am just sorting out what will be included in each one. I am leaning towards having a basic frame kit with the front and rear panels almost blank. This will help get around the various monitor/speaker combos people will be using. The marquee area would be cut out and the two acrylic panels will be supplied as well (machined to size of course). The back panel would be machined to include an access panel. I will also be offering the front Plexi panel if needed.

I also plan to build one-off jukes based on the equipment being used. Sorting out all of the possibilities has proven to be more difficult than the actual build! Any input from those interested will be greatly appreciated!

Here are some preview shots of the models I have been working on. The bottom picture is for the top bend, Instead of using two 1/8" MDF layers, I plan on machining one perforated 1/4" piece. This will simplify the build...ALOT.

[system01]

Geez, I thought you were gearing up for production mode here

How are you planning on producing these?  Are you gonna stockpile 'em, or are you gonna do like Joe does with his 4x4 kits and make them per order?

And are you planning on making para-turnkey kits with touchscreen, CPU, hdw, and speakers included?

I'm just thinking that there's only so many monitors that'll fit in there, and if you had a basic speaker grille, you could mount whatever speakers behind it - maybe some kind of universal user-drilled mounting plate.  You could throw in whatever front the user requests, or even a blank.

...can't resist, organizing solid model and production assemblies is my job.

[mountain]

Geez, I thought you were gearing up for production mode here

How are you planning on producing these?  Are you gonna stockpile 'em, or are you gonna do like Joe does with his 4x4 kits and make them per order?

And are you planning on making para-turnkey kits with touchscreen, CPU, hdw, and speakers included?

I'm just thinking that there's only so many monitors that'll fit in there, and if you had a basic speaker grille, you could mount whatever speakers behind it - maybe some kind of universal user-drilled mounting plate.  You could throw in whatever front the user requests, or even a blank.

Ha! Funny you should mention this. These are the main issues I have been trying to tackle. I think I am going to build them to suit the users needs, per order. The shell will be identical though and I will try to have 2-3 on hand at all times. I think this is where most users will find value in the kit. The bend is the hardest part.

The design has grown an inch in every direction to make the assembly much easier and to accommodate other monitors. There is no shortage on these monitors though. As soon as I free up some time I plan on finishing up the plans, build a few prototypes, and start offering these. In the meantime, here are a few pictures some test cuts I made a few weeks ago. The J shapes are meant to be mounted to the inside of the front and back panel. The 1/4" MDF with the relief cuts for bending will be mounted to these.

...can't resist, organizing solid model and production assemblies is my job.

How about flying out to Ohio and helping me get these things sorted out then!?? 

[system01]

How about flying out to Ohio and helping me get these things sorted out then!?? 

I wish.  I've never been to that part of the US - North of Alabama, between Illinois and Pennsylvania.  I hear it's beautiful.  Plus, Drew Carey tells me that "Cleveland Rocks!"

Hey, I've got a new product logo for ya!
 

[Kaytrim]

Looking good there Mountain.  I also like the logo system01.  Now you need one that says 'ELO Inside'

Michael

[mountain]

How about flying out to Ohio and helping me get these things sorted out then!?? 

I wish.  I've never been to that part of the US - North of Alabama, between Illinois and Pennsylvania.  I hear it's beautiful.  Plus, Drew Carey tells me that "Cleveland Rocks!"

Hey, I've got a new product logo for ya!
 

  That is too cool! 

Looking good there Mountain.  I also like the logo system01.  Now you need one that says 'ELO Inside'

Michael

or "27,000 songs inside" 

[YoGaBaR]

Sweet you will offer these in a kit!!!!
I want a couple of them sign me up. They would make a great Xmas and Wedding gift.

[cboy]

Hows this project going Mountain?

[mountain]

Hows this project going Mountain?

It is moving at a snails pace right now. 

My kids are very active in sports which has cut into the time spent out in the garage. The business in general is moving forward though. I am currently finishing up an 8' x 10' building in the back of the house to free up some space in the garage. The CNC machine has a 6' x 5' footprint that really crowded my little 20' x 20' garage.

I expect to be taking orders for the kits by the end of the month. Stay tuned! 

[javeryh]

Hows this project going Mountain?

It is moving at a snails pace right now. 

My kids are very active in sports which has cut into the time spent out in the garage. The business in general is moving forward though. I am currently finishing up an 8' x 10' building in the back of the house to free up some space in the garage. The CNC machine has a 6' x 5' footprint that really crowded my little 20' x 20' garage.

I expect to be taking orders for the kits by the end of the month. Stay tuned! 

LOL - my entire house has a 25' x 25' footprint!  Can't wait to see the new workshop!   

[wiggy]

Hi Mountain,  First of all, Awsome job. You have inspired me to make one of these beauties. I Do have one question, well many but one will do. what did you use to bond the perspex to the MDF, and did you have to scuff the perpex ?

Cheers,
Kyle.

[mountain]

Hi Mountain,  First of all, Awsome job. You have inspired me to make one of these beauties. I Do have one question, well many but one will do. what did you use to bond the perspex to the MDF, and did you have to scuff the perpex ?

Cheers,
Kyle.

Thanks Kyle. I covered the process in this post.

[wiggy]

Hi again, sorry for sounding dumb, i probably didnt phrase that right, i mean to ask what type of glue/bonding, did you use to stick the Plexiglass to the front MDF panel before you mounted it to the main unit. i am at the stage where im ready to put the plexiglass on the front but want to do it right..

PS, finding it hard here is OZ to get some local laminate, were you considering an alternative prior to settling on laminate.

Thanks,
Kyle.

[rEd86]

Incredible build!

I am interested in more information on the marquee.  Is it a decal with some sort of illumination/back lighting?  I would love to do something similar but I'm unclear on that part of the build.  Any additional information you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

TIA!

Never mind.  I just took a little more time and reread the entire thread - yeah, it was THAT good.  I missed the original post about the marquee construction.  Newbie mistake.  There is so much information here and I am like a kid in a candy store...   Slow down - take a deep breath.   

--Ed

[Shortbus]

Wow ! I should just pawn all my tools, your craftsmanship is amazing, I hope your Dad liked that gift. What a great post, I am motivated by what you have done and hope to someday be as talanted, thanks for sharing....excellent work!

[Kaytrim]

Hows this project going Mountain?

It is moving at a snails pace right now. 

My kids are very active in sports which has cut into the time spent out in the garage. The business in general is moving forward though. I am currently finishing up an 8' x 10' building in the back of the house to free up some space in the garage. The CNC machine has a 6' x 5' footprint that really crowded my little 20' x 20' garage.

I expect to be taking orders for the kits by the end of the month. Stay tuned! 

Any progress to report on the new workspace?

TTFN

[mountain]

Wow ! I should just pawn all my tools, your craftsmanship is amazing, I hope your Dad liked that gift. What a great post, I am motivated by what you have done and hope to someday be as talanted, thanks for sharing....excellent work!

Thank you! He loved the Juke and uses it a lot.

Kaytrim,
The work area is coming along nicely. The garage has a lot more usable space now. All I need now is time. It has been a very busy summer for me. I suppose I should have known, I guess I was being too optimistic. I have worked out a lot of issues with my CNC machine that would have caused a lot of problems in the long run. I have my first paying gig cutting out some exterior signs for a local doctors office. Once they are done I can switch back to Jukebox mode.

[azpaul]

Great Post here!  I have been looking for a decent design and this is it.  I am interested in purchasing a kit, possibly 3-5  of them.   Can you scale these kits to different sizes?  Like a floor model for instance?

Hope you come up with a price soon. 

Thanks.

[mountain]

Great Post here!  I have been looking for a decent design and this is it.  I am interested in purchasing a kit, possibly 3-5  of them.   Can you scale these kits to different sizes?  Like a floor model for instance?

Hope you come up with a price soon.  

Thanks.

Thanks azpaul,

I am glad you asked because this weekend I am finishing up a project that side tracked me a little and I plan to wrap up the design. Your question about the size options is interesting. I am going to offer the project in a few different stages of completion as well as making each kit unique to the buyer. I am willing to help out and work with people in order make the project scalable. Some people want it all and will pay for it, some want just the trickier parts made and want to tinker a bit.

I uploaded this video to YouTube the other day showing some prototype parts being cut for fit tests. Be patient   it gets better at about the midway point.

 



Oh, and for theCNC fans, this video is fun to watch. This is the side job I am delivering next week.

[javeryh]

Sick!  That thing must be loads of fun to play with.  How tough is it to program?  Are there pre-made programs floating around on the internet?  I can imagine making kids toys and lots of other stuff just because.

After about a year off I'm finally getting the itch to finish my juke - it will be a few weeks at least before I do anything (maybe even November the way my schedule is shaping up) but I'm excited to cross the finish line.