How much routing is too much?

[Doner Designs]

I "build" basses and guitars but am more of a modifier - not as strong on the woodworking.

My question is whether or not my planned routing in my current project will weaken the body too much to handle the string tension (Roto 77 flats).

The project starts with an SX Alder P bass. Planning to add Gibson type EB pickups at both bridge and neck. Also will be enlarging the control cavity slightly to accomodate a bank of 5 mini toggle switches. PG will resemble a Marcus Miller J.

Lastly, there will be two small routes on the back, each slightly larger than 9 v batteries. One may also double as rear access to the main control cavity. The second will just hold the battery.

I'm thinking that it should be ok and still considerably stronger than a hollow body.

Thoughts from you pros?

 

[gitlvr]

I'm not a pro, but I doubt you'll have any problems. If you look at some semi hollow designs, the guitars are completely hollow wings with just a solid strip of wood in the center to locate bridge and pickups on. They're perfectly strong enough. You're not going near that level.

 

[reverendrally]

Man, you should be fine. Most solid bodies are way over-engineered. Like totally.

 

[Doner Designs]

Thanks guys. Makes sense. The only difference that gives me pause is the 3 pickup design which is unusual and will weaken the center somewhat - so the "wings" help provide stiffness to comp for 3 large pickup routes.

 

[Doner Designs]

Here she is, all fulla holes...