Custom rack, isolation under platform vs component?


Hi all,

I build my own audio rack as pictured here:

 

I should have used wood that was thicker, as it is not super rigid. If I push on it, there is some wiggle. And if I apply some torque, there is some torsion. I believe if I bolt the platforms directly to the frame, and use the isolation under the components instead of the platform, the rack will be more rigid.

 

From your experience, do isolation feet work better under the platform, or the components? 

zpatenaude37

Yes, thank you. I am thinking that I will bolt the platforms in to hopefully increase rigidity. I assume that would be most beneficial even if others say they prefer the feet under platform vs component. In my case the rigidity should probably be addressed first. 

Components.

Nice job on the rack.

Do you have concrete or a wood floor?

Isolation aside, a neat & tidy job. Well done. If your cross pieces were actually fully fastened solid panels, with the maple shelves on those, all your structural issues would go away. Lot more work, obviously, but it looks like you have the skill needed.

Great job on your rack- that looks really nice! Not sure how much “wiggle” you’re experiencing- perhaps using a larger dimension material for the horizontal bracing (similar to your vertical supports) would help provide more rigidity/stiffness. The shelves for the components look substantial and have a nice finish. Well done!

Thank you all for the replies and compliments. And the floor is solid wood.

This was my first woodworking project. I did mortise and tenon joints. Since it was my first project, they aren't perfect joints, but the rack is definitely strong enough to hold the weight. And since it's my first time, I didn't realize when you order from Home Depot, 2x2 inch means 1.5x1.5. And 1 inch means .75 inches for the cross beams. I expected a slightly beefier rack. 

And I figured using beams instead of panels for the cross parts would offer more ventilation for the components. But now that I'll drill them directly in, that doesn't matter as much.