• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Should I use a drill to install my new neck?

GnarwhalNick

GnarwhalNick

Jan 18, 2011
503
323
DC
#1
NND? I just got a new neck with a maple fretboard from Fender in the mail last night and I can't wait to put it on my project bass. While the neck fits snug and the screw holes line up perfectly, I noticed that the screw holes on the neck are pretty small, as is standard for a hole that hasn't gotten a screw in it yet. I know that you should normally stay away from drills on a bass so you don't run into any stripping, but I just wanted to know if this instance is an exception to that rule. This is my first time with this and I just want to make sure I don't ruin a perfectly good neck
 
#2
The screws should be able to pass through your body and thread into the neck only.
Why not try to run a screw into them before installing to see if they are accurate?

It's a good idea to rub some bar soap or wax on the screw to lubricate it and help prevent splitting.
If they bind or seem overly tight you may have to open the holes a bit.

edited to add: use a screwdriver, not a power drill
 
  • Like
Reactions: Clark Dark, Spidey2112, NigelD and 3 others
#5
You can get beeswax at one of the woodworkers stores. I prefer this to soap because it stays put on the threads a little better.

Get a new, properly slotted screwdriver, too, unless the one you have has nice sharp and square edges.

Woodcraft, Highland, Rockler. Try one of these near you.
 
#9
Atshen said:
Cool. So, could we see the bass now? :hyper:
Click to expand...

Yes! When I'm home from work I can snap a picture of it. However, the bass is getting completely redone and is currently "naked". I still need to clean it, paint it, and install all the new electronics and hardware. I'm also waiting on a new pickguard as well, so once I have all the parts in place I'll be making a "transformation" thread with plenty of pics
 
  • Like
Reactions: Atshen
#13
Lots of good advice up above.

About all I'd add is that although it's better to use a screwdriver when installing wood screws, if you do use a drill you're still better off doing the last twists and final tightening by hand.
 
#14
Hmmm...nice to hear it correctly on. :thumbsup:

Hmmm...no pics yet, giving a reason for their absence. :unsure:

Hmmm...I hope nobody says, " :spit: NO PICS= NO BASS!"

I won't say that. I'll wait........... :angel:
 
  • Like
Reactions: mdogs
#17
I was feeling a little under the weather after work yesterday so i didn't post the pics but here they are. Like I said, the bass is still naked and I will be taking the neck off to paint the body. The "heel" of the neck is slightly different than the heel of the original one but there's such a small gap you wouldn't be able to tell
 

Attachments

  • IMG_5359.JPG
    IMG_5359.JPG
    479.2 KB · Views: 92
  • IMG_5360.JPG
    IMG_5360.JPG
    306.7 KB · Views: 106
  • IMG_5361.JPG
    IMG_5361.JPG
    235 KB · Views: 101
  • Like
Reactions: Atshen
#19
GnarwhalNick said:
I was feeling a little under the weather after work yesterday so i didn't post the pics but here they are. Like I said, the bass is still naked and I will be taking the neck off to paint the body. The "heel" of the neck is slightly different than the heel of the original one but there's such a small gap you wouldn't be able to tell
Click to expand...
Bass looks good! Can't go wrong with black and maple! However, if it were me, I would remove the neck and start over. That gap looks just a bit too wide for my liking. The screw holes won't be as tight this time around.

Here's a detail of your pic:
Gap.png
 
#20
Bodeanly said:
Bass looks good! Can't go wrong with black and maple! However, if it were me, I would remove the neck and start over. That gap looks just a bit too wide for my liking. The screw holes won't be as tight this time around.

Here's a detail of your pic:
View attachment 1101279
Click to expand...


The new paint job is going to be red, so sadly black and maple won't be the finished product! But I've always liked the look of red with maple so I'm not too upset :)

And yeah I noticed the gap in the back as well. I had already reinstalled it about 3 times to get it as snug as I could and I stopped because it was late at night. Once I get the paint job right and am ready to put this bad boy together I'll make sure it's sitting as snug as it can be
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back