Filling and redrilling tuner holes?

SRT80 · #1 02-14-2008, 09:06 AM

I've got a set of tuners that are too small for my SX neck. The holes in the headstock are 1/2" I believe. I was wondering how hard (or is it possible) to fill in the old holes and redrill smaller holes to get these tuners to work? If it works, I would plan on painting the headstock. Just curious cause I hate to waste these tuners...if I could use them.

Thanks,
Steve

Zooberwerx · #2 02-14-2008, 12:48 PM

I just read an archived article regarding this same subject on bassplayer.com. Its apparently a real pain-in-the-ass. Just keep your eyes trained on the "Accessories for Sale" forum; something will pop up.

Riis

stoney · #3 02-14-2008, 01:32 PM

Its not as bad as you would think. You need a hard wood maple dowel fit to size. Cut the pieces to length and glue them in and sand and level it and then re-drill your holes. I will say this, make sure you get GOOD quality maple dowels to do the job and you'll be fine. I have no former experience with repairs and it went fine just take your time. If you have any more questions I would suggest checking out the luthier section they can be very helpful.

Zooberwerx · #4 02-14-2008, 01:43 PM

The project described herein is somewhat different but I found the article informative:

http://www.bassplayer.com/article/in...s/oct-05/13790

The question I have is does grain orientation pose a problem? Is maple dowel adequate or would one be better off cutting a maple plug (two different grain orientations, I believe)?

Riis

202dy · #5 02-14-2008, 02:15 PM

This is one of the harder things to do in woodworking. If you do not already possess excellent hand skills and a shop full of tools this is not a job for you.

Plugs are cut from matching wood. Dowel rods will give a plug that has the grain running in the opposite direction. The cut must be precise to insure a strong, unnoticeable glue line. Don't forget to plug the screw holes, too. It may look like one or more might be in the right location, but it's doubtful. Once the glue is set the new holes are bored. Alignment of the tuner shafts is perpendicular to the leading edge. Not hard to do but it can be tricky. That is between eight and twenty holes depending on the tuners selected. Before final installation the lacquer needs to be touched up. This is not optional. Unfinished wood is an easy route for moisture to get in. Be careful installing screws into hardwood the first time. It is easy to snap them off.