Rod material

Ben Elder · Post by **Ben Elder** » 6 Apr 2006 9:14 pm

I'm an unredeemable mechanical nitwit (I think it's block-printed across my ever-expanding forehead and imprinted on my DNA). I wouldn't know where to begin to try to make 2" longer rods (for my ZB for now; maybe the Sho-Bud, Fender and BMI later so I can toss the rod extenders which sometimes have threading problems). However, I know someone who does know how. My job is to buy the rod material to be measured, bent and threaded.

I have no idea where to purchase this. Help. (OSH didn't seem to be the place.) I'm in a major metropolitan area, so availability is not nearly the problem that pure pointy-headed ivory-tower arts-degree cluelessness is. I've probably missed out on much in life by not considering industrial metal products as cherished gifts for friends and loved ones on holidays and special occasions. And all of a sudden I'm reminded of Bob and Ray's classic sponsor, Monongahela Steel Ingots...

Also: rod diameter measurement and thread # code would be helpful, although I do plan to take a rod with me...wherever such an establishment might be...

Paul Norman (RIP) · Post by **Paul Norman (RIP)** » 6 Apr 2006 9:55 pm

Take an old rod to Lowe s and go into hardware in the threaded nuts. It should be a 10/32, but it can be be 8/32 threads.
Determine which threads you have.
You dont have to buy anything.here. Go to Bobbe Seymour. Steel guitar Nashville, He has (under Lift Kits )
different size extensions to make the rods longer without having to make completely new rods.

Ben Elder · Post by **Ben Elder** » 6 Apr 2006 10:57 pm

I've bought 2" rod extenders and it seems like there's one in every batch that doesn't screw on the rod all the way (internal threading glitches?) and thus doesn't allow the necessary range of adjustment. (Or do I have one bad rod on every guitar I've ever had?) Since the guy who built ZBs in Bakersfield (John Rutledge) in the first place has offered to make a set of longer rods for my S-10, I'm going to take him up on that at least this one time to see how it works out.

John Daugherty · Post by **John Daugherty** » 7 Apr 2006 3:19 am

I have made some good working rods from 1/8" copper-clad welding rod. It can be purchased at a welding supplies business. I think it comes in 36" lengths.
The rod is durable and "springy" enough to perform well. You can thread one end with a die in the size of your choice.

------------------
www.home.earthlink.net/~johnd37

Bill Mayville · Post by **Bill Mayville** » 7 Apr 2006 3:28 am

As far as I know, The hobby shops here in Las Vegas Carry the rods.A fellow here named Gary Watson fixes steels all the time.

David Wren · Post by **David Wren** » 7 Apr 2006 9:12 am

Take a look at this site. I've been able to get many parts from them.
http://www.mts.net/~linkon/

------------------
Dave Wren
'95Carter S12-E9/B6,7X7; Twin Session 500s; Hilton Pedal; Black Box
www.ameechapman.com

A. J. Schobert · Post by **A. J. Schobert** » 7 Apr 2006 11:51 am

Ben I don't know if you solved your problem yet but I would find a small tool and die company and tell them what you need, it may cost a little more than replacements I would guess, but that may be a road to check out.

chas smith R.I.P. · Post by **chas smith R.I.P.** » 7 Apr 2006 9:24 pm

Ben, if you're in La Crescenta, then you are close to Industrial Metal Supply, 8300 San Fernando Rd, Sun Valley.

The rod material is 3/16". Steel is easier to work with, but you'll have to chrome it. So I suggest 303 stainless steel (it's easier to machine than 304, which is better for welding). The thread size is 10-32. (#10 is .1875" is 3/16" - 32 threads / inch, also known as NF, fine thread).

You could also use male-female threaded hex standoffs again, 10-32 .

Another resource, requiring patience and creativity is Luky's Surplus Hardware, on Burbank, in Burbank, near Hollywood Way.

If you want some reading material, you might be able to talk McMaster- Carr into sending you a catalogue. Tell them you are a business. 562-692-5911<font size="1" color="#8e236b"><p align="center">[This message was edited by chas smith on 07 April 2006 at 10:29 PM.]</p></FONT>