Ferrules for Warmoth string-thru

[AntiguaGuy]

I recently received my custom-order bass body from Warmoth. For the bridge rout, I had specified "Hipshot FM2 String-Thru". I bought a set of genuine Fender Bass String Ferrules (Fender part #0048604049). When I started to try to install them, I observed that the shaft and flange of the Fender ferrules seemed very oversized for the holes that Warmoth had drilled for them.
Is there a different sized ferrule that fits these FM2 holes?

 

[claudel]

There are many different sized ferrules.

The Fender ones from the '51 reissues are particularly large.

Got a ruler?

Warmoth will probably have the right size for their holes.

Measure & let me know the diameter.

If I have the right size ( and color ) squirreled away I'll send them to you.

 

[AntiguaGuy]

Thanks, claudel. The Warmoth holes are approximately 0.35" (8.9mm) in the shaft and 0.48" (12.2mm) where it's countersunk for the flange. My Fender Bass String Ferrules (Fender part #0048604049) measure approximately 0.51" (13.0mm) across the shaft and 0.62" (15.7mm) across the flange.
I expect that the holes should be slightly smaller than the ferrules, so that the ferrules will stay tightly in place. But I'm nervous about trying to force these large ferrules into those small holes.

 

[claudel]

Thanks, claudel. The Warmoth holes are approximately 0.35" (8.9mm) in the shaft and 0.48" (12.2mm) where it's countersunk for the flange. My Fender Bass String Ferrules (Fender part #0048604049) measure approximately 0.51" (13.0mm) across the shaft and 0.62" (15.7mm) across the flange.
I expect that the holes should be slightly smaller than the ferrules, so that the ferrules will stay tightly in place. But I'm nervous about trying to force these large ferrules into those small holes.

You have the large ferrules and they're not the right size for the holes.

Way beyond forcing.

Either enlarge the holes or get the right size.

I have a set of 4 nickel? or chrome ones I'll donate that are much closer.

PM me your address and I'll send them, but it might be next week before I get to the Post Office.

 

[AntiguaGuy]

Thanks for your generous offer, claudel! But I think that it will be less hassle for both of us if I simply order the right ones from Warmoth. They only sell one size of bass string ferrule ($1.45 each), so I presume that it's one that will fit the holes that they drill. But I'll check with them to make sure.

 

[AntiguaGuy]

Just to put closure on this thread, I wanted to let everyone know that I contacted Spike at Warmoth, and he essentially confirmed what claudel had suggested - Warmoth prepares the ferrule bed for the 3/8" ferrules (which seem to be most commonly used), but the genuine Fender Bass String Ferrules (Fender part #0048604049) are 1/2". I ordered a set of Allparts Bass String Ferrules on Amazon, and they fit perfectly.
Spike also passed along an installation tip - he said "If you don’t have a press to install them, you can use a 2.5” machine screw, washers, and a nut to compress them into the body." That's how I did it, and it was simple and effective. Great customer support from Spike!

 

[jimi55lp]

The 1951 RI (75th) measure 19.1mm, but Fender won't see them. I'm willing to enlarge the mortises in my predrilled ash body, but can't find the larger size?

 

[sissy kathy]

That must be the length of the grommet. If it's the width, that is 3/4"; a string ball will slip right through. Find the diameter you need and whether it is ID or OD. You probably need a 4 or 5 mm grommet (a 0.140 B string is ~3.6 mm in diameter.)
You can order them here:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/356981937332

 

[jimi55lp]

That must be the length of the grommet. If it's the width, that is 3/4"; a string ball will slip right through. Find the diameter you need and whether it is ID or OD. You probably need a 4 or 5 mm grommet (a 0.140 B string is ~3.6 mm in diameter.)
You can order them here:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/356981937332

The upper lip has an outside diameter of 18.90mm which is about 3/4inch, but this is the top lip that holds the ferrules from sinking deeper into the body. The hole/orifice inside is ferrules is small enough to hold the string ball from passing thru. These size ferrules are what came on 1951-57 Precision and the CS reissue.