[sdiy] Questions about Pots

[theinmans at mindspring.com]

Keep in mind when cutting the shaft:  You need to leave enough length
to allow the shaft to penetrate the panel to which you are mounting it
and the depth of the knob you will attach to it.  If you cut it too
short,
you won't be able to get the knob on.  If you cut it too long, the knob 
will not sit flush on the panel.  It is hard to forget about the knob,
but easy to forget about the panel and some plastic box walls (a la 
Radio Shack) are thicker than you might imagine.

Better to cut it a little too long and sand it down.  On the other hand, 
if you cut one too short, don't trash it.  You can use it without a knob
at your workbench.  Also keep in mind, a "flat" cut is far better than a
crooked one.  With a crooked cut, you may never be able get a knob to
sit
solidly on top of it.

Elliot -- Man Who Has Miscut Too Many RS Pots