Quote:
Originally Posted by BullHorn  They suggest using wax or soap on the screws. Should i do this or just put the screws in without it?
As far as i know, the wax could protect the screw from corrosion and damage to the wood.
What do you guys think? |
OK This comes from a 20+ year user of Dunlop strap locks. I ONLY use the original "long" style as it gives me a good lenght to slip my cord through on it's way to the input jack. This applies to Fender basses or any bass where the buttons are on the end and the front end of the upper horn.
Remove old buttons, if the holes are worn out and loose you can use a toothpick with a "small" amount (just coat the sides) of white glue (elmers) and slip it in before you put the new screws in. The Dunlop screws are longer and slightly larger diameter than the stock Fender screws. I take a small 2 inch brad nail, insert it in the hole and give a couple of "light" taps in the end of the hole and remove the nail. Be careful, you dont want that nail stuck in there. This will create a small dimple in the hole for the new screw to bite into. You can also use a fine wire drill bit but be careful, turn the bit by hand, you just need some fresh dimples at the end of the hole.
Make sure that your screwdriver matches the head of the new screw perfectly so it won't slip out. Take the new screw and rub it on a bar of soap to coat the threads with soap. Insert the screw and tighten slowly. If you feel any resistance, stop and back out the screw, re-soap and start again. Turn until it snugs up and then just a hair more and you're done.
I always use the little felt washers from Fender between the lock and body just to make it look nice. I have a bass that has straplocks installed this way and no problems in over 20 years.
One other thing I do yearly is put a small amount of machine oil on the ends of the strap connectors just to keep ball bearings lubed and free so they don't stick. You don't need very much and wipe off any excess.
NEVER - assume that the strap is locked in the button. Always check it after inserting it. Give it a good pull, make sure it's locked in there. I've had them slip out right after inserting but it has been a rare occurance. Better to be safe.
Good luck and stay low
