Installing a Neck Without Damaging Finish

[Silence Kid]

I never had to think about this before, except this guitar already had a quite tight neck pocket.

Any strategies on getting the neck in the pocket without nicking or cracking the finish in the body surrounding it? I masked off the neck pocket while spraying, and plan on sanding on the edges a bit, but don't want to overdo sanding.

[ICTGoober]

Re: Installing a Neck Without Damaging Finish

First of all, did you dry fit the neck in the pocket before you finished it?

[blakejcan]

Re: Installing a Neck Without Damaging Finish

line it up and push it straight down into place. If it flexes too much and freaks you out then sand it back a little. And try again. Rinse & repeat.

I tried to slide it in one time and watched my brand new perfect nitro finish chip off at the neck. Instant relic job (and heartbreaking)

[Silence Kid]

Re: Installing a Neck Without Damaging Finish

Yep the neck was on the guitar for years.

So straight from the top down, rather than sliding it toward the bridge?

[ehdwuld]

Re: Installing a Neck Without Damaging Finish

Top down

[ChAoZ]

Re: Installing a Neck Without Damaging Finish

Candle wax on the neck pocket