How to put on a CPO with no holes?

[Constellation]

So I have a new CPO that I need to put on my new panel.

The new CPO doesn't have holes in it, so I am curious whats the best way to ensure I get it put on correctly, since it would seem I really only have one shot at it! Additionally, once I have it on correctly, whats the best way to drill out the holes so that they stay clean for the button install?!

Any tips and tricks are appreciated!

 

[Jamesv833]

You should be able to line it up pretty good by using a flashlight or shoplight underneath. Trim out the holes with an exacto or razor blade, I've also seen people use a half round file to trim the button holes afte cutting an x with a razor.

 

[Constellation]

Additionally - should I paint a bare metal panel with something so that the CPO adheres betteR?

 

[Jamesv833]

Additionally - should I paint a bare metal panel with something so that the CPO adheres betteR?

I always do. I've seen some people say white is best for certain cpos. Make sure to let the paint dry for a while so you don't have any issues later. I wait 2 weeks since I'm never in a rush.

 

[andrewb]

Definitely paint the CP. Rustoleum Ultra Cover 2x spray is what you want. Let it fully cure for at least a week.

What game is this for? (Tempest?) Search threads here for advice on white vs black paint. White makes some colors/CPOs pop more. I used black on mine, and it's fine.

For removing the holes after application, an exacto knife with a fresh blade, and a slow hand.

 

[Constellation]

Definitely paint the CP. Rustoleum Ultra Cover 2x spray is what you want. Let it fully cure for at least a week.

What game is this for? (Tempest?) Search threads here for advice on white vs black paint. White makes some colors/CPOs pop more. I used black on mine, and it's fine.

For removing the holes after application, an exacto knife with a fresh blade, and a slow hand.

Dragons Lair!

 

[ManNamedJed]

Paint and put in the oven at 200 for a few hours and it will cure a lot faster.

 

[VectorCollector]

For DL, achromatic grey was recommended to me.
I chose to paint my CP grey (rustoleum satin granite). Right in the middle of white and black. LOL
(Typically I also paint my CPs black ... this change in color is a first).

 

[Constellation]

Are there any trick to line up the edges so its accurate? I don't want overhang or underhang - or whatever its called!

 

[andrewb]

I'd say go original and go black in that case. As for alignment, you want to tape it to the sides with masking tape, and use a lot of tape so it won't shift as you're applying.

John's Arcade has several videos about applying CPO's. Worth looking up.

 

[Scott C]

Agree with the comments above about painting, using tape, and putting light below the CP. Another trick is using a water spray mist, which keeps the glue at bay until you get it exactly right. The paint must be 100% cured.

Scott C.

 

[mgkastra]

I haven't tried the light thing yet. I have a TimePilot CPO I ordered from TOG. I am not sure if it will shine through, but if it does, I think I am golden

I'll post a picture tonight....

 

[TheYeti]

If the overlay wraps around corners you absolutely must clamp it for 24 hours to allow the CPO to conform to the curves.

I didn't do this on my Mario Bros Wide-Body CPO and it was nearly a disaster. I was only able to save it by using contact cement.

 

[ArcadeTechGW]

I just did this with an Asteroids Deluxe cocktail.

I stripped off the old overlay, then sanded the surface smooth. I primed and then painted with Rustoleum primer, sanded that, cleaned with a solvent, and then painted it with Rustoleum black satin paint.

I let it hang and cure for several weeks before I worked up the courage after watching some videos.

For mine, I lined up the overlay on the bottom, then slowly removed the contact paper and applied it slowly. Once I got past the buttons, I had to make the bend. I did that and clamped the heck out of it for a few days, then installed it.

I used an X-acto knife to carefully remove the material in the button holes, pressed in the buttons carefully, and then pal-nutted them and the switches in place.

It looks much better than I had hoped for. Thanks to all the videos and following the suggestions, it turned out great.

 

[Scott C]

So I have a new CPO that I need to put on my new panel.



The new CPO doesn't have holes in it, so I am curious whats the best way to ensure I get it put on correctly, since it would seem I really only have one shot at it! Additionally, once I have it on correctly, whats the best way to drill out the holes so that they stay clean for the button install?!



Any tips and tricks are appreciated!

If you want to compare your repro to my AR repro with holes, then give me a shout.

Scott C.

 

[Yoeddy]

John's Arcade has several videos about applying CPO's. Worth looking up.

He has one specifically where he cuts holes out...I just can remember which one it is.

Jason

 

[VectorCollector]

DL CPO (w/ holes) installation (and bonus side art install). Learn from John's minor mistake(s).

 

[HighScoreSaves]

It's a sticker ... Not brain surgery..... Sheeesh

 

[Yoeddy]

Remember also, that a flute with no holes, is not a flute. And a doughnut with no hole, is a danish.

Thanks,
Jason

 

[andrewb]

One thing I will add regarding tape:

When I did my Tempest, I used tape, basically as I learned from John's videos. (I think I used masking tape, maybe blue tape.) However one thing I did learn in the process is that tape isn't perfect.

Tape will have some amount of 'give'. Basically right along the edge, where it can stretch a tiny bit, which will let the CPO move ever so slightly as you're adhering it.

This did result in my alignment being off a small amount. Not a showstopper, but the hole was a hair misaligned. But it's something I told myself I'd want to be more careful of if I ever did another one of these.

Just don't blindly trust the tape to keep it rock solid perfect, and keep your eye on it as you do the initial adhesion, and you'll be ok.

It might be helpful if there is some kind of clamp you could add, that would provide a little more force, but not mar up the CPO. That might keep it from moving at all, along with the tape.