Can I install a pick guard on my bass which doesn't have a pick guard?

Discussion in 'Basses [BG]' started by spintop90, Jun 20, 2019.

  1. spintop90

    spintop90

    Mar 2, 2018
    South Florida
    New to bass guitar
    I have a Yamaha TRBX174ew, and I was wondering if it's possible if I can buy a pick guard online and just drill it in without any future problems.

    Also, if I was buying online, how would I know if the pick guard would fit on my bass, knobs, and pickups.
     
  2. garp

    garp

    Feb 7, 2009
    Connecticut USA
    That model was never offered with a pickguard, so unfortunately, there's no OEM replacement to buy. And I doubt there's an online supplier who has an existing template for that particular instrument – but as the expression goes: "Never say never."

    Your best bet would be to get a price quote from one of the many custom pickguard builders out there. You'd need to supply them with a specific design to follow, either via a very precise tracing or a digital CAD file, and then specify the material you want. If you're concerned about how many screw holes to use and where they should be placed, the vendor may be able to assist, or perhaps ask a local luthier for his/her advice.
     
  3. Killed_by_Death

    Killed_by_Death Snaggletooth Inactive

    Please don't cover the beautiful Exotic Wood of a TRBX174EW:
    [​IMG]
    The machine-heads are the weak point on those IIRC. I had one for a bit & the machine-heads liked to slip when tuning up.
     
    gebass6 likes this.
  4. spintop90

    spintop90

    Mar 2, 2018
    South Florida
    New to bass guitar
    [​IMG]It looks more like this, but I don't think I'm going to cover it with a pick guard.. It was just a curious thought I've had for a while.
     
  5. bassbenj

    bassbenj

    Aug 11, 2009
    You have to design your own pickguard and have it custom made. If you use double-sided carpet tape rather than screws to hold it in place you can take it back off to show wood without damaging screw holes showing. I did this to my G&L L2500s that never had pickguards. They can be played with or without pickguards and I can switch the pickguard colors around to suit my mood. For example I also have a Tort guard that often is put on the natural Tribute. Looks great!

    [​IMG]
     
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