Guitar Techs...how would you do this

[JeffB]

See the pic? :bigok:



I want to remove that mini switch and install a full size pot. The switch hole is 1/8" so I need to bring it up to 3/8"

I'm not worried about perfection as the guitar is plenty scratched and dinged now (this was a "when new" shot). I just need to get it done, and any small crack or whatnot can be covered by the knob/washer.

Would you just grab a 3/8 drill bit ( I have a high end cordless), or a wood reamer of some sort?

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

I would begin by taking measurements to confirm that the centre of the hole drilled for the mini switch is in the correct location to also be the centre of the hole to be drilled (or widened) for a pot.

Assume nothing!

 

[Brandenburg]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

negative on the drill bit.. i have botched a hole before.. I would use a reamer.. and take your time

random thought
<<is it possible universe.. to describe how to use a reamer without sounding like a script in a porn movie.. seriously tried several sentences and decided on ".. and take your time">>

 

[GilmourD]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Now, that is a moderation tool.

 

[GilmourD]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Now, that is a moderation tool.

That's just for warnings. You don't wanna see what I use for infractions.

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Assume nothing.

 

[Brandenburg]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

That's just for warnings. You don't wanna see what I use for infractions.

im strangely aroused but yet frightened

i somehow picture you as the manager, on Dilbert.. lol

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

i somehow picture you as the manager, on Dilbert.. lol

Not so much The Pointy-Haired Boss, more Catbert, the evil director of H. R.

 

[GilmourD]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

im strangely aroused but yet frightened

i somehow picture you as the manager, on Dilbert.. lol

No, I have a functioning brain and a vast knowledge of tech.

Oh, and much better hair.

Not so much The Pointy-Haired Boss, more Catbert, the evil director of H. R.

Maybe, but I only punish those who deserve it. I'm much less of a masochist. LOL




Anyway, how big is the hole hiding under that switch? would anybody be shocked if the hole is already standard size for a pot and Gibson used a spacer for the switch?

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Catbert is Sadistic, not masochistic. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catbert

 

[GilmourD]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Catbert is Sadistic, not masochistic. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catbert

True. Was thinking of the wrong word. Tired from killing spammers.

Anyhow, let's keep this on topic, guys. Don't want you to get reamed.

 

[Gaspasser69]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Wouldnt a brad point work for drilling lacquered wood. Or a forstner? A regular bit would likely cause chipping.the reamer might cause chipping if used aggressively. One flake could pop off when the cutting edge pushes against some part of the finish. Reamer should be safe though.

 

[Brandenburg]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Wouldnt a brad point work for drilling lacquered wood. Or a forstner? A regular bit would likely cause chipping.the reamer might cause chipping if used aggressively. One flake could pop off when the cutting edge pushes against some part of the finish. Reamer should be safe though.

advantage of a reamer is that you maintain control. i usually mark the aprox. diameter with masking tape.. this will get me close.. then i turn a rotation ore 2.. and see if the pot fits..repeat untill the pot or tuner fits stuggly

Definitely stay away from a forstner bit for this type of work.. very aggressive and kool to use but can do alot of damage..... IMO i only use forstners for recessing switches and pots..

 

[kramersteen]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

I use a round wood rasp. Never had any problems.

 

[ehdwuld]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Masking tape over the hole area to help prevent chip-out

Step up in drill size


*(Sent from my durned phone!)*

 

[uOpt]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

The reamer can still crack the paint.

I would use a round tool shaped like a reamer wrapped in sandpaper to start from the top. When the hole in the paint is wide enough than a real reamer working only on the wood (not the paint) from the other side.

 

[uOpt]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Or just shoot a suitable caliber bullet through.

 

[Brandenburg]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

as the OP can see..lots of different ways to do this type of work.. really all depends on the tools he has access to too..

 

[JeffB]

Re: Guitar Techs...how would you do this

Yeah. Thanks for all the advice gents. I will probably try the reamer.