Replacing the neck on a Fender MIM P

[lkngro]

I got a new neck from Stewmac for Christmas to replace my broken one on my MIM Fender P. I, of course, consulted my dad on this, and after taking a look at it, we figured that it shouldn't be too hard. Just bolt the neck on and mount the tuners.

But is there anything we're missing? Are there any "secret tips" to putting on a replacement neck? I don't want to mess this up and have to spend $150 on another replacement neck.

Thanks,
Luke

[80'sRocker]

Does this neck have pre-drilled holes matching the body's 4 neck holes?

[Foamy]

What about moving the nut? You should be able to take it off easily if you're careful. And, are you familiar with adjusting the truss rod?
How about adjusting the saddles at the bridge? Intonation?
All these things are fairly easy to do if you're careful. And they are all described brilliantly by others here on TalkBass. Just things to think about...

[lkngro]

Originally Posted by 80'sRocker

Does this neck have pre-drilled holes matching the body's 4 neck holes?

No, it doesn't. We were going to have the screws poke out just enough from the pocket so that we can place the neck in the pocket and the screws will make indentations on the neck so we know just where to drill the holes.

But drilling the holes will be interesting, since we can't just place it on a drillpress and drill. The neck radius will make it wobble.

And yes, I know how to do a setup. Truss rod adjustments, saddle height, intonation, etc.

[Foamy]

Originally Posted by lkngro

No, it doesn't. We were going to have the screws poke out just enough from the pocket so that we can place the neck in the pocket and the screws will make indentations on the neck so we know just where to drill the holes.

But drilling the holes will be interesting, since we can't just place it on a drillpress and drill. The neck radius will make it wobble.

And yes, I know how to do a setup. Truss rod adjustments, saddle height, intonation, etc.

Not only the radius, but watch the taper. Sounds like y'all know what to look for though. Setting up a jig is pretty easy - I'd look at clamping blocks on the sides of the body end of the neck. That'd keep it square.
Oh...be sure your drill press is also aligned. Folks forget that bit.
Good luck!

[202dy]

Search is your friend.

Discussion of neck alignment from 2007.

This neck was already drilled. However, the alignment and marking procedure is the same.