new guitar - almost ready to string

Raymond Jones · Post by **Raymond Jones** » 22 Mar 2014 1:16 pm

Just to show an old dog can learn new tricks! Always worked in metal and I wanted to see what it was like to work in wood - a lot of learning to do yet. I still had to have some metal work involved. First assembly with all the bits in place. Need the fret markers cut in for mother of pearl rounds. I will strip it down and work on the wood finish next.I think just an oil finish is what I want. Suggestions ?? Thanks for looking - Ray

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Ron Whitfield · Post by **Ron Whitfield** » 22 Mar 2014 1:47 pm

That's one of the more interesting homemades lately, Raymond, love the metal sandwich. Did you get that idea from other steels or independently? I'm surprised more don't do that. The roller nut may be the weak link, but you never know...

Tom Pettingill · Post by **Tom Pettingill** » 23 Mar 2014 8:13 am

Looking good Raymond

The only thing I'd note is that you may have some string balance issues with the P90. The Dusenberg bridge has 11mm saddle spacing / 55 mm overall, vrs a P90's 10 mm /50 mm pole spacing.

For a finish, a basic satin oil based wipe on type finish would be fine and look great.

Peter den Hartogh · Post by **Peter den Hartogh** » 23 Mar 2014 8:29 am

Great Job! Are the tuners the right way around?

Raymond Jones · Post by **Raymond Jones** » 23 Mar 2014 8:46 am

Ron - I used the idea from Sierra for the aluminum laminate, and took the shape of the headstock from Tom.

Tom - I noticed the spacing difference of the P90, I guess that is where you have a custom PUP built. In hopes it would work I tried to fudge the position as best I could - could be a replacement is needed. I like the idea for the finish - The fact that as a MASTER at your craft you are willing to share ideas and your knowledge is very much appreciated !!!

Peter- You could be right about the tuners, I just put them on to do a mock-up, I know it makes a difference as to the wear on the gears - I,m used to open gears - easy to see - Thank you

Tom Pettingill · Post by **Tom Pettingill** » 23 Mar 2014 9:33 am

Always happy to help if I can. It was the kindness of others sharing their expertise that helped me get to where I'm at.

Although a custom pickup is certainly an option, a Fender sized single coil is a good match. If you find that you end up having problems, a Lace Alumitone P90 would be one no fuss drop in option. Another route might be something like Vintage Vibe's CC Rider Charlie Christian pickup. It should fit the width fine, but the route would need to be widened a little.

The Steel Guitar Forum

new guitar - almost ready to string

new guitar - almost ready to string

Thanks for the reply and info !!