Gene Simmons Spector Copy Build

[wmhill]

I don't know if this was posted or seen- but thought it was of interest to the topic.
Untitled Document

 

[ThaCoast]

Yes. In 79-80 time frame, Steve Carr removed the Spector logo, and replaced it with the Gene logo. Also, the bass was painted all black.

While not historically not accurate, I'm going to paint mine with the white binding and Gene logo, via wet transfer decal.

I always prefered the white binding over the all black repaint he had. Also are you going with a dimarzio Model Mudbucker Pickup for "historic" accuracy?

 

[bassgod76]

I always prefered the white binding over the all black repaint he had. Also are you going with a dimarzio Model Mudbucker Pickup for "historic" accuracy?

The original one never had a mudbucker, from what I've seen. I think it's always had the DiMarzio, from the eight pole pieces on the pickup, compared to 4 on a regular mudbucker.

 

[ThaCoast]

that is what i meant when i asked, if you're going to use the Dimarzio Pickup like the original had xD

 

[bassgod76]

that is what i meant when i asked, if you're going to use the Dimarzio Pickup like the original had xD

Yeah, most likely I will get a DiMarzio, and refinish it silver.

 

[Nocturnal]

Another great project!!

 

[Hopkins]

I'm not even all that big of a fan of KISS, but that tribute band seems like one of the most fun gigs you could possibly play.

 

[bassgod76]

I'm not even all that big of a fan of KISS, but that tribute band seems like one of the most fun gigs you could possibly play.

I'm not Kiss nuts, but it is a fun gig

 

[ThaCoast]

Hows the spector look?

 

[bassgod76]

Tonight I'm going to attempt grafting that piece to the body. I'm also adding white faux binding to one of my LoBues tonight, so tape up will take a bit

 

[bassgod76]

Last night, while finishing up some clear coating on my LoBues, I decided to start the initial cardboard template, which would eventually be transferred to an MDF routing template.

I started with tracing out the body I have.

Next, using an exacto knife, I cut out my Spector print.

Laying the print over my body tracing.

Being that I'm modeling a neck thru bass on to a bolt on body, I had to make some slight alterations to the neck joint area. They are not huge changes, but are important with structural integrity.

Lastly, I taped my print over the poster board, and I cut her out.

Next, I have to cut out the upper horn, transplant a new piece of wood on to the body, and trace out my poster board template on to MDF.

Stay tuned!!

 

[buldog5151bass]

I just saw this thread. Call me silly, but all that work just to add an inch of wood? If it were me, I'd just shape the upper horn as close as I could. Do you really think the fans will notice. Of course, if you are doing it because you like to play in the shop, have at it.

 

[bassgod76]

I just saw this thread. Call me silly, but all that work just to add an inch of wood? If it were me, I'd just shape the upper horn as close as I could. Do you really think the fans will notice. Of course, if you are doing it because you like to play in the shop, have at it.

You are right, but it's my own mental hang up

 

[buldog5151bass]

You are right, but it's my own mental hang up

No problem - I like making sawdust as well, and getting it exactly like you want it will help with the visual appeal - we need pics as this comes along.

 

[DOMIT]

Why not start with a cheap Spector (not the high end ones) to begin with? Just curious...

 

[bassgod76]

Why not start with a cheap Spector (not the high end ones) to begin with? Just curious...

Because the Vantage was free, and it was a nice playing bass, prior.

Plus, even a new Spector would require reshaping on both body and headstock.

 

[bassgod76]

Tonight was the big transplant night.

My first task was to figure out a way to get my chop saw to cut a straight line on curved shape.
Via double stick tape, and some plexiglass, we are in business.

I had to jerry rig my saw to keep the body affixed to the cutting surface, but the cut looks good.

Using the same technique, I cut off the other end.

The replacement wood fits nicely.

I layed my paper template over the new working area. Looks like I have plenty extra room!

Lastly, with everything fitting nice, time for glue!

Yes, there are some rogue saw blade cuts I have to address, but after some epoxy love, it should be decent.

Stay tuned!

 

[buldog5151bass]

Sandpaper, a spindle sander, and a dust masks are all your friend. I've been there...

Keep us posted.

 

[bassgod76]

Tonight I transferred my blue prints to poster board, and then to MDF, for some band saw action!

 

[bassgod76]

I cut out my templates. They need finishing, but we are almost ready!