how to remove pick guard from an acoustic?

[lex666]

hey guys,

whats the safest way to remove a pick guard from an acoustic guitar without ruining or damaging the top? my top has no 'gloss' on it - its just plain wood- no poly, nitro, etc. I'm afraid any type of chemical or adhesive remover will discolor the top... and I'm afraid just pulling the guard off will damage the wood top...

any advice is appreciated.

thanks!

 

[Pontiac Jack]

Re: how to remove pick guard from an acoustic?

Use a hairdryer to warm it up. This will cause the glue to soften. GO EASY!!!
If you go crazy with the heat you can create all sorts of other problems.
When it's warm,slip a long,thin knife blade under the guard. Gently work the blade along,warming the pickguard as you go.
Once it is removed,your biggest problem is getting rid of the glue residue. It can be cleaned up with eucalyptus oil.

Cheers,PJ

 

[Lu_B]

Re: how to remove pick guard from an acoustic?

How old is the guitar?

I assume your not replacing the pickguard?

You might find that the wood under the pickguard is a different colour to the rest of the top as wood changes colour when exposed to the elements especially sunlight.

 

[millsart]

Re: how to remove pick guard from an acoustic?

Dont use a knife blade!!

Its very difficult to keep the blade flush with the surface and you can damage the finish either scratching it with the tip of the blade or cut into the wood.

Use dental floss, its far safer to work with and you wont damage the wood underneath the guard. Just warm it to soften the glue and then use floss in a sawing motion working it across the guard.

Go very slowly and use minimal force. If you apply to much pressure you can cause the glue to pull away with the guard and risk damaging the wood.

 

[lex666]

Re: how to remove pick guard from an acoustic?

Thanks for the replies guys and ladies!

How old is the guitar?

I assume your not replacing the pickguard?

You might find that the wood under the pickguard is a different colour to the rest of the top as wood changes colour when exposed to the elements especially sunlight.

The guitar is my 7yo+ Martin.

You are correct, I don't plan on replacing the pick guard. I don't really care for the pick guard look and want to show the wood underneath.

Yeah, I've thought about the wood color underneath the guard. I'm still trying to figure out what to do about that.