[Boar-Ral]

I started building a sub/component enclosure for under the second row seats.* I wanted to save as much space as possible, so I went with 1/2" MDF and #8 screws.* Unfortunately, the MDF is splitting when I try to screw the sides onto the base.* I considered pre-drilling the holes or using wood glue instead.* Does anyone with experience working with this stuff have any recommendations?* I can go with 3/4" MDF for the sides if it comes to that.* The base is fine as 1/2".* I am just trying to keep things as small as possible.* If anyone has any recommendations, I would love to hear them.* Thanks!