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Pigtail Replacements

akstrat61

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 16, 2004
Messages
1,845
Well, the time has come to change my studs, bushings and tailpiece on my '55 Jr. I did this on another Jr I had about 4-5 years ago. Of course then, that guitar was worth about $1500. For some reason, I am a little more concerned this time around. Steve is waiting to hear from me about how long of bushing I will need. He is set up now to make them and will custom them the length I need.

This '55 has leaned since I got it. Not real bad, but is starting to concern me. I don't want the piece to chip out between the lower stud and the pup, like I have seen many do. I'm sure we all know what the value of these guitars has done. This one is completely straight, I have already pulled the tuners off, since the others were beginning to look very weak. I play this one out quite a bit.

Last time I did this repair, I used a stack of half inch washers to pull the old bushings out and the new ones just went in like no ones business. I will tape around the old bushings before I start and cut with an exacto around the old studs and finish that might get in the way of removal and chip the finish.

I know this process has been discussed here before and I have reviewed the related threads. Am I missing something here and should I have a pro do this, or do people think this is a repair the lay guitarist can do himself?

Here goes! Let me know your thoughts before I begin. Thanks!
IMG_0791.jpg
 

straightblues

Member
Joined
Mar 17, 2004
Messages
954
I have done that before. But even so, a guitar worth that amount of money I would have a professional with a good name do. You can use it as a sales tool and get even more money.
 

akstrat61

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 16, 2004
Messages
1,845
I have done that before. But even so, a guitar worth that amount of money I would have a professional with a good name do. You can use it as a sales tool and get even more money.

I don't plan on selling this guitar. It is just too great of a player. I shouldn't be so skeptical about my abilities, just not a repair I have much experience with. Not much response to this thread, but i think I'm off to do a little repair. Wish me luck. I will post a pict or two when it is done.:photos

Mark
 
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