Edges of Top Panel Routed & Various Adjustments

I got the edges of the top panel routed with a 1/8” roundover bit.





I spent several hours doing little bits and pieces adjustments that needed to be done in order for things to fit correctly. For instance, I sawed down the thickness of the base on the right side so that the bottom radiator will fit in the bottom. I also had to make several adjustments to the bottom of the metal frame and the separate radiator mounting piece to make sure the holes line up properly with the rad mount holes.



I was having an issue with the top panel where it did not quite want to sit flush against the top of the front panel. There was just a slight gap. I added a couple of pieces to the top panel to make it rest against the metal of the frame with a brass screw insert so that I can use a machine screw to secure the middle area of the front of the top panel to the top of the front panel to eliminate the small gap.





I also had a slight gap between the base sides and the base front. I made my own little mending brackets out of aluminum, and used a Dremel to hack out small grooves for them to sit in so that they don't protrude from the bottom. I wasn't too concerned with making the grooves really neat as they are on the bottom of the case and will be covered by felt cushion anyway.



I was having some issues with the edge trim on the top edges not being held down very securely. I used #4 x 1/4” flathead screws, but they just weren't holding well. I've found before that #2 x 1/4” screws hold better, and should have used them the first time. Using JB weld I filled in the countersunk holes in the case top, and drilled new holes using round head #2 x 1/4” screws. I am going to paint or powdercoat the metal part of the case anyway, so a bit of JB Weld is not a problem. The #2 screws really secure the edge mouldings much better.





I think next I will work on the power buttons, and then it should be on to the sides or either the reservoir depending on what strikes my fancy to get done next.

Thanks for stopping by.