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Lumenlab > Audio Video Sciences > Projector Builder > Projector Technical Support
blake
What kinda tools would someone need in order to build a case like this if they are on a budget? Plus factor in the LCD sled, focusing mech, mogul mount ect...





Any links would be much appreciated, thanks in advance. smile.gif
DAZZZLA
This is a hard question to answer. I have allot of tools, more than the average person, so deciding what is the minimum is like trying to decide which child to give up.
It depends on your skill level as well.
Here’s a list of some tools that you might consider:
Cordless Drill- drilling, screwing
Jigsaw- cutting curves, straight lines, slots
Hand plane- for fine adjustments to edges of individual panels and joints that are not quite flush.
Builder’s square
Chisel
Electric saw with a guide or a saw bench.
Router
You could build the box without some of these tools but as I said it depends on your skills. For example the bench saw makes all of you cuts straight but you could also use a hand saw and hand plane to get the same result. Jigsaw could be replaced with a copeing saw or drill and file. Router with a chisel etc.

DJ
mikyd1954
I agree with dazzla, it depends on what you've done before, the absolute minimum is a drill and a coping saw and a hand saw and some screwdrivers and a couple of clamps... a jig saw is really handy though...if you don't want to spend a lot, try Menards toolshop brand if they have that near you or ebay if you can find some with reasonable shipping, depends on what you want to spend.... if they have a harborfreight near you they have really good sales....
even at walmart you can get a drill, a jigsaw and screwdrivers for maybe 50-60$ total....
Durachko
blake:

High school shop teachers are in my experience an amiable lot and given to generosity regarding tools. Also, vocational-technical schools frequently offer night classes whereby one can pay an amount to basically make use of all their VERY good quality shop tools. Got any buddies with a Dad with a to-die-for shop? You'll run into the odd guy with an immaculate shop who doesn't want anyone to even sneeze on his router but there are plenty of other guys who'd be willing to lend a hand if approached properly. My neighbors have stuff I don't and we freely exchange our shop space and tools with each other. I used their brand new scroll saw to cut out my lens frames since I don't have one at present. They owed me because I turned some stuff for them awhile back on my lathe. So, maybe you can call in some favors you've got lying around? Just some thoughts. Look around - you may find someone who can help you out a lot and be really happy to do it.

Edit: Also, if you need a REAL specialty thing - there are members (myself included) who'd be willing to crank something little out on a one-off basis for a few bucks and the price of postage. If you ever need something don't hesitate to contact me through PM and I'd certainly consider helping you out although my time schedule may or may not fit in with your desires and/or expectations! wink.gif
bevo77
I wouldn't hurt to talk with a local cabinet shop. If you can get the plans/dimensions for the "bakery PJ", a cabinet shop may be willing to build one for you at a reasonable fee and, if they're any good, the cabinet will be cut precisely, with secure joints, and no light leaks. You would probably spend more on tools than a custom job (and less splinters).
mikyd1954
also, unless you think you will be building more than one pj, or unles you want to get into woodworking, house work etc, you might just contact Tescorp and see what it would cost to have one made for you.... probably cheaper in the long run to do that if you don't have any interest in doing more than building a pj or just don't have the space etc, from the pictures I've seen he does good work..... I've gone thru a lot of wood and have a bunch of tools, but I am enjoying doing other things with them around the house, but I've spent way more than just ordering a box would have been...
bearcat10
Just be careful with the power tools. I consider myself an expert carpenter and I did it for a living for several years. Just remember safety first and wear eye protection. I would like to suggest, use liqiud nail and screws to construct your cabinet. When the liquid nail dries you may remove the screws and your structure will be rigid. DO NOT use the metal brackets that you get at the home improvement stores. If you're building a square box, go to lowes or Home depot and buy youre material (5/8" thick) and take your plan with you. they will make the cuts right there. All you need is a cordless (12volt) drill and you can figure the rest out. Thats what I would do if i didnt have any tools. Good tools are expensive. If you want to buy tools and do the cutting then just be careful. Im just curious, what would you pay to have the box made? hope this helps
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