drilling control plate holes on jazz bass

beyondat · #1 07-31-2011, 06:23 PM

Whats up, this may be a weird question but I have parts bass that I put together. I have everything i need except for the pickguard which is being shipped to me as I type this. Since I don't have the pickguard yet I don't want to drill the control plate hole to ensure a proper pickguard/plate fit. Well I'm impatient and really want to play the bass so has anyone ever drilled the control plate hole before installing the pickguard? Any suggestions? Thanks

Jazzdogg · #2 07-31-2011, 07:10 PM

Perhaps the kindest thing we can do is refrain from answering until your pickguard arrives.

beyondat · #3 07-31-2011, 07:53 PM

Wow, i knew that someone would say that!

gjbassist · #4 07-31-2011, 08:02 PM

I wouldn't drill the holes until you have the pickguard! The chances it will line up perfectly with the control plate already installed are very slim.

m.oreilly · #5 07-31-2011, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gjbassist

I wouldn't drill the holes until you have the pickguard! The chances it will line up perfectly with the control plate already installed are very slim.

this.

(i used an ice pick kind of tool to pre punch, and a screwgun to gently sink after that)

Jazzdogg · #6 07-31-2011, 09:01 PM

These self-centering drill bits work great for installing just about anything that requires screws to be driven in the exact center of a countersunk hole, e.g., hinges and pickguards:

Rockler/Insty-Drive Self-Centering Bits - Rockler Woodworking Tools

Steveaux · #7 08-01-2011, 07:33 AM

Stanley Self-Centering Screw Hole Punch - 58-013 at The Home Depot