epiphone thunderbird - what to do about the neck dive???

BenDecker · #1 01-20-2011, 06:46 AM

I own a epiphone thunderbird and I am really pleased with the sound, but the neck dive makes it nearly unplayable for anything just a little little bit advanced.

What can I do about that?

I was thinking about repositioning the strap holders but I'm not sure, how to position them for better balance. Any help out there??

Qvist · #2 01-20-2011, 06:48 AM

Make it into a fenderbird! That would at least make it look way more cool...

Floridabwoy · #3 01-20-2011, 06:49 AM

not to be a jerk.... but do a search. there is a lot of info on it.

isorokko · #4 01-20-2011, 06:53 AM

I just fixed mine a couple of days ago. Moved the strapbutton behind the neck, right where the neck joins the body. Screwed to the body of course, not the neck.

Ric5 · #5 01-20-2011, 09:23 PM

My solution ...

TBird1958 · #6 01-20-2011, 09:32 PM

Put it right here...........easy.

Makes a good starting point for a Fenderbird too.

T-Bird · #7 01-20-2011, 11:33 PM

Hi.

Suede backed wide strap and this:

It's on the same spot as in my Firebird.

Regards
Sam

electracoyote · #8 01-20-2011, 11:43 PM

Yes to all the above: Move/modify the strap button, get a strap made with a more non-slip material, or change out the tuners to something like the Hipshot Ultra Lite vintage (with the large ears but small gears and housings).

I never really had to do any of the above with my Gibson T Bird. Even before I switched out the tuners to Ultra lites (as more of an upgrade than a preventative against neck dive), I just didn't notice it. I think it has a lot to do with personal style, how you wear your bass.

stiles72 · #9 01-22-2011, 05:09 PM

I put mine even closer to the lower horn, and also closer to the rear fin. That way the bass will sit almost vertically for me. I do this to all of my birds.

rockstarbassist · #10 01-22-2011, 10:51 PM

I put mine on one of the actual neckplate screws. Works fine.

BenDecker · #11 01-23-2011, 11:29 AM

Thanks for all the help!!
That was exactly what I was looking for.
These forums are awesome!

NOT · #12 09-18-2011, 01:51 PM

If you hang your Thunderbird low, don't. I hang my thunderbird slightly below my waist, and rarely have a problem with dive.

Andii Syckz · #13 03-16-2012, 07:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NOT

If you hang your Thunderbird low, don't. I hang my thunderbird slightly below my waist, and rarely have a problem with dive.

Sorry resurecting an old post but +1 to that, i hang it low and i dont have the problem. I have an inch wide leather belt strap (made with belts obvs.

and it won't dive as much. i can feel the weight on my shoulder more but wtvr, not uncommon with a heavy bass.

coronado3 · #14 03-16-2012, 07:22 AM

I dig the Ric-O-Bird 5! Beautiful....

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ric5

My solution ...

tiger_rich · #15 03-18-2012, 11:02 AM

I have an epiphone thunderbird pro 4 I'm in the process of refinishing and I have a couple questions. First I see where everybody is putting the strap buttons on a bolt on neck , I have read in previous forums that the pro models could of come with the strap buttons in either location I have not seen this in person. Just wanna verify before I start. Drilling. Also should I drill the holes for new bridge before or after?
For pups I'm thinking about emg 35 dc at the bridge and cs at neck problem is the whole is bigger than the pickups. some people use 40 series but on ton the pro model that would go all the way through the neck thru body. opinions on this matter would be very helpful. Yes I have been researching it when I get a chance But since my wife had a stroke I haven't had much free time. thank you again for any opinions and or advice

tiger_rich · #16 03-18-2012, 11:05 AM

Sorry, phone was upside down on first pic.

Pilgrim · #17 03-18-2012, 11:21 AM

Follow Tbird1958's recommendations. Aside from being a very sharp guy, he only plays T-birds and he knows what he's talking about.

And bottom line is that you'll never eliminate all the neck dive.

THE SAW · #18 03-19-2012, 10:02 AM

OK, then I'll ask:

How are the newest releases of Gibson's T-Birds? Anyone feel free to chime in......

bassbenj · #19 03-19-2012, 08:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pilgrim

Follow Tbird1958's recommendations. Aside from being a very sharp guy, he only plays T-birds and he knows what he's talking about.

And bottom line is that you'll never eliminate all the neck dive.

Actually, I'd say that the strap button on a stalk all but eliminates dive. TBird1958's upper button is good too but will leave some dive. Adding the stalk at that point will pretty much eliminate it (especially with nice strap etc.).

YMMV, but my experience with buttons on back of neck or neck plate have been poor. The problem I have is the bass wants to tilt out away from your body! The button on the upper "horn" tends to hold it against you.

One idea I've never tried is the Steinberger thing which is a flat metal bracket that bolts on to the neck plate then goes to the left and forward with a strap button out on the end, which gives more leverage against the neck and the forward bend holds the bass against your body.