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gavinturner
20-11-2013, 09:32 AM
hi guys,

Today I received my eagerly awaited Jnr DC kit from Adam who kindly replaced my previous kit due to a set of misplaced bridge post holes. This one looks good and I'm eager to get started on it. All in all I now have 4 separate Pitbull builds in the works. The man cave is awash in open kit boxes! If I'm not careful my year's building will all be done by the end of January!

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/3rny9-IMG_2791_small.JPG

Inspired by Jase's efforts, I'm planning a classic butterscotch finish, but with a little something different for the scratchplate. Hey, I know we've seen a butterscotch Jnr before, and therefore I'm not likely to win GOTM for my efforts, (especially with Andy on the case too ;) am I right!! :P) but *man* I just had to have a butterscotch Jnr hanging on my wall - maybe even cruching out few slabs of Green Day 8-).

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/1iy19-IMG_2794_small.JPG

Anyway, the project is off to a flying start. Since I'm using Wudtone for this one it might even take precidence over the others. Wudtone is just so perfect for the hobby builder - easy to prepare and apply - that it really is a joy to use. I'm really looking forward to it - and that's coming from a Colortone dye and Tru-oil stalwart from way back!

cheers,
Gavin.

lawry
20-11-2013, 09:40 AM
Methinks you have your Christmas break well and truly covered Gav.

keloooe
20-11-2013, 10:44 AM
Ahhhhhh... TV Yellow Jnr DC... Nice to see another Green Day fan amongst us all! I suspect you might attempt the 'Adeline Skull' on Billie's Jnr, or something different?

gavinturner
20-11-2013, 10:54 AM
Hey Callum,
Yeah I had considered hand painting the skull, but I'm not sure I could do it the justice it deserves. Would be great to get a vinyl decal for the scratchplate like the signature models have. Might try to look into that :).

Cheers,
Gavin.

lawry
20-11-2013, 07:10 PM
Hey Gav, I have had two scratch plates engraved at Labels Extreme and they are great. Have you thought about having that done?

keloooe
20-11-2013, 08:03 PM
Oh Gav, ya going to Soundwave in Feb or March of ya live in Perth? Green Day are headlining the whole thing, I'm going!!!

Yeah, doing that kind of stuff on guards is a bit tricky, Gibson use heat to transfer their designs

gavinturner
20-11-2013, 10:16 PM
@Lawry: thanks for the tip! That sounds like a cool idea. Even if I can't get the logo done i might be able to think up a cool title for the build :)
@Callum: yes I'm going in Sydney. Should be a blast!

Cheers,
Gav.

Andyport
21-11-2013, 12:18 AM
If you are after the logo as a vinyl sticker, I know just the person who could do it ;)

gavinturner
21-11-2013, 01:12 AM
@Andy: you are the man! Can I just supply it as a png image?

Andyport
21-11-2013, 01:25 AM
Sure can.
By looking at the signature model, it seems to be in a chrome vinyl.

http://www2.gibson.com/Products/Electric-Guitars/Les-Paul/Gibson-USA/Billie-Joe-Armstrong-Les-Paul-Junior-Double-Cut/Specs.aspx

But of course, it can be in any colour you want.

gavinturner
21-11-2013, 01:33 AM
@Andy: do you have a required/preferred DPI for the image?

Thanks,
Gav.

Andyport
21-11-2013, 02:43 AM
The higher the better. 300dpi is nice, but anywhere from 100dpi up.
I will then convert it to a vector graphic format for cutting.
Glad to help...I love the Butterscotch / TV Yellow Juniors as well.
Should look fantastic hanging on your wall.

Andyport
21-11-2013, 03:55 AM
Do you have an email address Gav?

gavinturner
23-11-2013, 02:05 AM
@Andy: my email address is: gturner.au AT gmail DOT com

gavinturner
23-11-2013, 02:12 AM
hi guys,

today I did very little coding, and quite a bit of guitar building. I should feel guilty but I don't. I managed to get my headstock shaped into the classic Gibson scrolly look (I kinda did ok but I'm not 100% satisfied with it). Those curves are tough to get even!

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/s679l-IMG_2810_small.JPG

I also created a custom pickguard from 3-ply tortoiseshell. I ended up creating two versions - firstly one with a little of the white middle ply showing at the edges, and one without. Unfortunately I think I like the plain better, hence the re-do. What do you guys think? which looks better?


http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/q6sqz-IMG_2809_small.JPG

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/l2d4g-IMG_2802_small.JPG

I think this tortoiseshell is going to look really good with the butterscotch. I alreadfy like the look of it against the bare basswood body. I think I'll go wild and make a truss-rod cover too. Sounds like a job for the weekend.

cheers,
Gav.

AJ
23-11-2013, 03:38 AM
looks good :)

gavinturner
23-11-2013, 03:55 AM
@AJ: thanks man, I think it should add something :).

So much for weekend work. I went ahead and created a truss rod cover too. Only took 15 minutes. It really ties the room together. Ha!

cheers,
Gav.
http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/l8wrd-IMG_2815_small.JPG

wokkaboy
23-11-2013, 04:24 AM
Hey Gav that tortoiseshell pickguard and truss rod cover look the goods, I'd go with them for sure, bet you can't wait to get some butterscotch on !
If I worked from home I'd be in the workshop 90% of a working day as well ! haha

lawry
23-11-2013, 06:02 AM
Agreed. That tortoise shell with a butterscotch finish around it will be an awesome combo.

gavinturner
23-11-2013, 08:38 AM
@Lawry, @Wokka - thanks guys. I'm really hoping this one will turn out nice. I'm thinking of adding just a splash of white to the base colour to make it just a tad lighter than Jase's awesome axe. More towards TV yellow perhaps. I'm still thinking about it.

Cheers,
Gav.

Andyport
23-11-2013, 12:34 PM
Definitely go with the classic TV Yellow, Gav.
When you say your customised truss rod cover "really ties the room together"...
don't tell me your another "Big Lebowski" fan.

robin
23-11-2013, 09:03 PM
Its looking great Gav, can't wait to see the final product. I am really starting to like these Juniors, classic uncluttered beauty.

rob

gavinturner
23-11-2013, 09:41 PM
@Rob: Thanks for the encouragement. I'm hoping it will all come out ok.
@Andy: You got the reference! Hehe.. awesome movie. Hey man, I got a beverage here!

cheers,
Gav.

gavinturner
24-11-2013, 01:12 AM
hi guys,

Well the first coat of Wudtone is on. I gave the neck and the body a really good sand with 240 and 360 grit papers, filled the grain with Timbermate slurry, and took it back off with 360 grit. After that I lightly sanded with 400 grit, raised the grain with water, and then applied the 400 again. It's pretty smooooth!

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/bon57-20131123_11-32-18_small.jpg

I am using Butterscotch Wudtone for the body and Vintage Amber for the neck/headstock. The Wudtone went on well although there's a couple of bog spots on the body that have now been highlighted, and I'm not very happy with those. I guess these will blend in as the colour deepens (i hope so anyway).

I mixed about a third of the white into the Butterscotch to try and get a lighter golden colour. It's looking more like light amber at this stage, but I'm hoping that it will golden up with subsequent coats. Either way, the grain is looking quite nice at the moment.

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/i5z0y-20131123_12-01-05_small.jpg

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/n5km3-20131123_12-01-57_small.jpg

I do plan to put quite a deep colour on the body, so more than likely the grain is going to all but disappear under colour coats.

cheers,
Gav.

stan
24-11-2013, 09:25 AM
that's coming along nicely Gav

DanMade
24-11-2013, 11:04 AM
Hey Gav. That's looking great. I'd be tempted just to go straight to clear coats . That grain really looks great.

That said. From what I've read and experienced with Wudtone, sanding the body to a fine grit like 400 can inhibit the penetration of the finish into the timber. I think 240 grit is recommended.
As you are going for more of a solid colour, you would need the best penetration to achieve an even solid coverage.

Might it pay to hit it with some 240 now before you get any more coats on? I don't know.
DB, you reading this. Is my thinking correct on not sanding too fine. Someone with more experience, what do you say.

Gav, I'm not doubting your methodology, it just crossed my mind and I thought it was worth a disscusion.

gavinturner
24-11-2013, 12:07 PM
No worries Dan, thanks for the heads-up!

I have read that only sanding to 240 is recommended for Wudtone, so I've probably gone too far. Trouble is, 240 just seems so coarse to me, that I just can't stop there. I did sand to 400 on my last Wudtone build (the strat) and the colour built up eventually, so it may be ok. I did get some streaking though in later coats and the sanding may have been a contributing factor. Anyway, I'll see how it goes. In the end it might be another issue chocked up to experience. Thanks for the quick advice though. I appreciate the way forum members speak up not only when they think something is right, but also when they see a potential problem and a fix. That kind of support is one of the great things about this community!

thanks dude.

cheers,
Gav.

keloooe
25-11-2013, 11:31 PM
I sanded to 240 on my LP and the colour just went on like a treat! nice to have a close-looking BJA Junior DC on the wall, they are INCREDIBLY rare!

gavinturner
27-11-2013, 02:59 AM
hi guys,

The fourth coats of Butterscotch and Vintage Amber Wudtone went on today. That will be all for the headstock and neck - it is now ready for the decal and clear coats. The colour on the body is deepening slowly every day. It really isn't as golden as I expected, but it is looking nice all the same. I do think the colour will change a little when the clear coats go on. I reckon 2 or 3 more colour coats will see it finished. Here is a look at it out in the sun to try and get an accurate representation of the colour.

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/91600-IMG_2856_wudtone4.JPG

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/j7fr8-IMG_2857_wudtone4.JPG

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
27-11-2013, 03:19 AM
love the colour Gav, it should look a bit deeper after clear coats, think you meant to say 2 or 3 clear coats it should be finished. Look forward to next pics

gavinturner
27-11-2013, 05:53 AM
@Wokka: thanks dude. No I did mean colour coats. I think i'll add a couple more on the body before I go to clear. Then again, I may change my mind in the morning. It does look pretty good as it is now..

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
27-11-2013, 06:36 AM
sure Gav, can't hurt to apply more colour coats, the wudtone should be a little darker. Are you planning highlights ?

gavinturner
27-11-2013, 07:11 AM
@Wokka: No, never even thought about highlights. I guess of all the Wudtone colours, gold highlights might have worked really well here to increase the golden sheen. An opportunity missed perhaps?

Cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
27-11-2013, 07:16 AM
it will look fine with just clear coats Gav but if you had gold highlights in stock I'd apply them after your last colour coat.

gavinturner
27-11-2013, 11:42 PM
The custom headstock decal went on today without a hitch. The decal was bought online and is the same as for previous builds. When my current supply of decals is exhausted, I'm going to be sourcing them from a company here in Australia. Here it is out in the sun to get a better idea of the colour..

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/x47y2-IMG_2873_decal3.JPG

Now that I look at the headstock and neck, I think I went a bit heavy with the Vintage Amber Wudtone. I honestly think 2 coats would have been more than enough, not the 4 that it finished up with. Next time I think I'll try the Vintage Yellow instead. It doesn't look anywhere near as dark as the amber. Oh well, you live and learn - I thought it looked awesome on the Stratocaster build, but hey. Hopefully when the tuners and strings go on it won't look as, well, orange!

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
28-11-2013, 12:42 AM
looks awesome Gav the logo and colour of the headstock is quite orange, reminds me almost of the wudtone burning sun colour

gavinturner
28-11-2013, 01:08 AM
@Wokka: yeah too orange. It doesn't look as severe in real life, but still a little much unfortunately.

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
28-11-2013, 01:26 AM
I'm sure it will look fine Gav, unless you try staining the headstock with a more lighter yellow colour if it bothers you that much.
I've found with my builds it's almost impossible to match the body and headstock colours as the maple headstock doesn't take the wudtone as well. I'm not too bothered if the colours differ a bit

gavinturner
28-11-2013, 01:41 AM
@Wokka: yeah for me it really has to be a flaw (scratch etc) for me to re-do. If I make my choices and that's how it 's going to look as a result then so be it. It makes each build different and each new build is a learning experience. It may well tone down once the body is on.

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
28-11-2013, 01:49 AM
yer it will look fine Gav. So thats butterscotch on the headstock ? normally I've found the headstock colours come up much lighter in colour than the body, thats strange, plus you can't put any more colour coats with the logo on.

gavinturner
28-11-2013, 02:04 AM
@Wokka: no it's the Vintage Amber neck kit. 4 coats. You know I am almost tempted to sand it all off the front of the headstock and apply the butterscotch.. Hmmm.

Screw it. I think i'm gonna do it.

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
28-11-2013, 02:11 AM
oh ok that explains the orange colour. I normally only use the neck kits for the neck and headstock sides, but I always use the same colour as the body for the headstock front face. Big call to strip the headstock back, re-apply logo etc. Hope it doesn't delay the build too much ! Can you please post a photo of the headstock next to the body before you do anything, the colour difference may not be that bad !

gavinturner
28-11-2013, 02:22 AM
@Wokka: the pic below shows the difference between the body and the headstock. I never meant for them to get this disparate, but there it is. The more I think about it the more I want to take it off the front of the headstock and be done with it. I have extra decals so that isn't an issue. So long as I don't stuff it up worse (it's possible) it is definitely the best course of action IMO. Whaddayareckon?

http://pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/4t0y5-IMG_2882_headstock.JPG

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
28-11-2013, 02:54 AM
yes thats a tough one Gav, the headstock is quite a bit more orange, doubt putting a coat of vintage amber on the body is an option to make the body more orange as you're going for a TV yellow appearance.
If you have the time then yes sorry, I'd strip back front of the headstock

Andyport
28-11-2013, 04:48 AM
Yeah Gav, think that's what I would do if it were me. It's just too different from the body colour.
It's not like it's a large area you're dealing with, either.
Every time you pick it up to play you're no going to be happy with it.

Andyport
28-11-2013, 04:52 AM
Yeah Gav, think that's what I would do if it were me. It's just too different from the body colour.
It's not like it's a large area you're dealing with, either.
Every time you pick it up to play you not won't be happy with it.

Either that, or it now becomes a Gibson black headstock????

gavinturner
29-11-2013, 04:19 AM
@Andy, @Wokka: yep you guys called it. No point continuing as-is.

And so, with no question that the Vintage Amber headstock colour had to go, I decided to scrub it back to bare wood (just the face) and start applying Butterscotch Wudtone instead. With the decision made, all that was left to do was sand with 180 grit until all the colour was removed, then finish off with 240, 360 (plus grain raising) and finally 400 grits.I managed to keep the sanding block flat so that none of the colour was removed from the sides of the headstock at all (Woohoo!). This was a great relief I can tell you.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sn9e1-jr1.JPG

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/8v504-jr2.JPG

The first coat of Wudtone went on thereafter (ever so carefully) and the transformation was well on its way. I am paranoid that I'll make a mess of the Butterscotch down the sides of the headstock, but I'm being as careful as I can be. I'm up to 2 coats on the headstock now and it is looking great:

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/5pa09-IMG_2911_hscoat2.JPG

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
29-11-2013, 05:03 AM
sweet good job Gav, its hard to bite the bullet and go backwards on a build but sure it will pay off. Well done not sanding off any of the sides ! Probably 3 or 4 coats should be enough and apply the decal

Andyport
29-11-2013, 05:22 AM
Well done Gav, nice neat job...looks heaps better.

johnnychronic
29-11-2013, 06:39 AM
Good call! That's one you won't regret reversing.

gavinturner
03-12-2013, 01:52 AM
hi guys,

Something awesome arrived in the mail today from our very own Andyport of City Signs and Prints in Port Lincoln SA. It's his interpretation of the 'Adeline skull' icon that adorns the Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day) signature Les Paul Junior. The logos are done in chrome vinyl at both 2cm and 2.5cm diameters. How amazing is that! One of the 2.5cm logos will be adorning my scratch plate on this Jnr build. I'm also considering the smaller one for the trus-rod cover.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/1n1zl-GD_Logo.jpg

Andy has done an absolutely amazing job with these (it's his work 100%) and I couldn't be happier. If you want to add that Andyport midas-touch to your build, please get in contact with him and see what he can do for you. You won't be disappointed. I won't be sourcing vinyl decals from anyone else but Andy in future!

I'm blown away folks.

cheers,
Gav.

lawry
03-12-2013, 02:17 AM
They are so cool! I didn't know Andy did signs and things.
I'll definitely keep him in mind for the next build. Luvem!

Andyport
03-12-2013, 05:03 AM
Thanks Gav...
Glad you are going for the larger one on the scratch plate, I was going to suggest that.
Seems closer to the size on the original BJA Signature.
Cheers
Andy

gavinturner
03-12-2013, 08:03 AM
You did a fantastic job Andy. - so close to the real thing. I can't wait to put it all together!
It's going to be an interminable wait for the rest of the Wudtone to go on and cure before I can start.

Cheers,
Gav.

keloooe
03-12-2013, 09:05 PM
Man that looks so sick Andy! I need to get some decals off ya too for my current build I think... What is your email address so I can talk to you about the design?

gavinturner
04-12-2013, 12:53 PM
@Pest: Andy's business email is as follows: citysigns AT internode.on.net

Cheers,
Gav.

gavinturner
17-12-2013, 12:38 AM
hi guys,

Got the last coat of Butterscotch Wudtone and clear on the LP Jnr this week. That makes 8 colour coats and 3 clear coats. Would have been more clear but unfortunately I ran out. I also managed to get the replacement headstock decal on there after my disastrous do-over. All looks good now though and after allowing a week to cure I've managed to polish the Wudtone with Colortone medium compound. The shine is coming up, and I've still got fine and swirl remover compounds to go.

Will be great to get the finish completed so I can see it with the scratch plate on!

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/3l8d7-IMG_3052_small.JPG

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/7kh9i-IMG_3053_small.JPG

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/y94k1-IMG_3054_small.JPG

cheers,
Gav.

Brendan
17-12-2013, 12:44 AM
Looking great Gav. Great job! Keen to see how it turns out... The decals look freakin' awesome!

wokkaboy
17-12-2013, 01:09 AM
yes great job Gav, can't wait (like you) to see the decal on the scratchplate and axe bolted together. Was worth sanding the headstock to get the colours are matching now

gavinturner
17-12-2013, 02:38 AM
Ok, so I couldn't wait. Just had to get the decals out and see them on the pickguard and truss rod cover. How awesome do these look??? So happy with them. Thanks Andy man - you rock!!!

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/6dq41-IMG_3062_small.JPG

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/wdq2w-IMG_3066_small.JPG

cheers,
Gav.

Brendan
17-12-2013, 02:43 AM
They rock - looking great!

Andyport
17-12-2013, 11:47 AM
Looking beautiful Gav.
The body looks excellent, nice even colour and not a blemish in sight...looks good enough to eat!
Lots of sanding has gone into this one no doubt.
Decals come up good against the red pick guard. Like the truss rod cover, nice touch.

gavinturner
17-12-2013, 12:25 PM
@Brendan, @Wokka, @Andy - thanks guys. I'm pretty happy with how it's shaping up. A bit more shine on the body and I'll be ready to assemble!

cheers,
Gav.

robin
17-12-2013, 01:08 PM
Wowsers Gav, yet another beautiful looking Jr.

They really are a stripped bare, classic looking guitar and the finish you have got on it is superb. I can't wait to see it all put together, she will be a stunner.

rob

gavinturner
18-12-2013, 12:53 AM
@Robin - thanks dude. Yeah I can't wait to see it all together. I've never had a P90 guitar before so I really want to see how she sounds!

cheers,
Gav.

wokkaboy
18-12-2013, 01:51 AM
yes can't wait to see you rip out some Green Day chords Gav ! Should look and sound awesome. You might need to bolt this baby down from the Pest trying to aquire it !

gavinturner
21-12-2013, 05:04 AM
hi guys,
ok, clear is on and finished. Just a little wait for it to cure completely and then it's assembly time.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/n5iso-IMG_3075_small.JPG

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/jl4fo-IMG_3076_small.JPG

cheers,
Gav.

lawry
21-12-2013, 06:17 AM
That's one cool banana. I know, bad pun. Looking forward to hearing it Gav!

wokkaboy
21-12-2013, 06:20 AM
wow Gav looks very glossy, thats not tru oil is it ?
I'll see you in the naughty corner ! haha

gavinturner
21-12-2013, 07:32 AM
@Wokka - No, it's something even naughtier! :P

cheers,
Gav.

stan
21-12-2013, 09:55 AM
superb finish Gav - does it begin with "N" ?

gavinturner
21-12-2013, 10:39 AM
No 'P' ... ;)

gavinturner
25-12-2013, 05:23 AM
hi guys

One step closer to finishing today. Got the frets levelled and re-crowned. A few new bits of kit, which was exciting. I used a 12" radiused sanding block this time rather than my precision straight edge. It has been recommended by Gav in his levelling tutorial, and I thought that it may help me maintain the correct fretboard radius.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/oklqn-fret_leveling_tools.jpg

I also got myself a new re-crowning file from Stewmac. Up until now I've been using the 'Little Bone' fret file. To be honest I'm not sure which I like better. The stewmac file is a complete semi-circular file which means that once the sides are formed correctly, the file will begin to take height off the top of the fret again, ruining your careful levelling job.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/4wmz1-20131224_15-39-16_fretfile.jpg

Additionally, you can't see what is happening to the fret while you file. The little bone only takes the sides off the fret, and it is much easier (IMO) to see how close you are to finishing. Maybe I'm just not used to it. Anyway, it's all done now including the polishing of the frets with chrome polish and some Dr Ducks for the fretboard. It's looking nice and I can't wait to string her up.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/ok1r7-20131224_16-19-39_drducks.jpg

cheers,
Gav.

jarrod
25-12-2013, 07:22 AM
Looking awsome gav.

stan
26-12-2013, 09:37 AM
nice!

Andyport
26-12-2013, 07:17 PM
Good job Gav on the levelling...the fretboard looks tops after Dr Ducks did his stuff!!
Almost there now...she's going to be a thing of beauty.

gavinturner
31-12-2013, 05:13 AM
hi guys,

Got a little bit further today with the Jnr. I polished the body and headstock with Colortone swirl remover and got all the cavity shielding completed. The earth wire from the bridge post is in and soldered to the control cavity, and a link has been soldered from the pickup cavity to the control cavity.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/5z56y-20131230_10-45-01_small.jpg

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/1y576-20131230_10-50-03_small.jpg

I also got the neck attached, the tuners in and the scratchplate + truss rod cover screwed down. I have upgraded the bridge to a tune-o-matic wrap-around style to hopefully allow more fine-tuning of the intonation. It fit with the original bridge posts which was nice.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/h3z6l-20131230_14-03-57_small.jpg

I still have the electronics to do before I can plug this baby in, but it is all coming together.

cheers,
Gav.

gavinturner
31-12-2013, 05:20 AM
Here's how the body looks in the sun. I'm pretty happy with it. 8-)

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/yb924-20131230_14-01-10_small.jpg

cheers,
Gav.

stan
31-12-2013, 10:45 AM
terrific finishing job Gav!

Andyport
31-12-2013, 07:41 PM
Hey Gav, looks superb...great job, you must be thrilled.
As a matter of interest, how did you go screwing down the P90 to conform to the arched top?
Mine gave me all sorts of grief...the plastic cover seemed way to rigid to bend easily.
Just interested to know if you had similar issues and how you went about it?

Fretworn
31-12-2013, 08:08 PM
Lookin' good.

gavinturner
31-12-2013, 08:59 PM
@Andy: yeah the pickup was a bit of a bitch. I just screwed it down slowly alternating sides until it was down. It's only just touching the wood really. I think if I try to screw it down hard it's going to break. One side started to pucker around the screw so I had to back it off again. Time will tell if it's there for good or if I need to do more..

cheers,
Gav.

robin
01-01-2014, 11:52 PM
Hi Gav, I've already said it before, but she is looking great, well done mate.

As my next build is a Jr, I have been following yours and Andy's build with great interest. I already know that my effort will not come up to scratch compared with your two, and I also know that the P90 is going to be a bit of a problem, so I am now looking at my next headache. The tune-o-matic wraparound bridge.

I had been waiting for my upgrade parts to arrive so have not started the build yet, but I have noticed that the T-O-M bridge that I got from StewMac is considerable taller than the original kit one. Is yours the same, and if so, has I caused a problem in obtaining correct string height??

Any advice appreciated.

Cheers,
rob

gavinturner
02-01-2014, 12:13 AM
@Robin: thanks for the kind words. Pretty sure you'll blow this one out of the water - yet another GOTM winner for sure :). Yeah my tune-o-matic bridge is just an eBay special, but it is also higher than the original bridge. I haven't looked at it yet, but I'm assuming I'll need to put a shim in the neck pocket to accomodate the extra height. Last time I did this (ok, the only time ;)) I used a piece of milk bottle plastic cut to the correct size. This was a suggestion I read online, but maybe DB and Gav could give a (better) suggestion as to what to use. In any event the process was rather painless and I got the result I needed. The good thing is that at any time you can unscrew the neck and adjust/improve it.

Hope this helps.

cheers,
Gav.

robin
02-01-2014, 02:25 AM
Lol, thank YOU for the kind words Gav. The only GOTM winners that I have been lucky enough to snare have been the ones I have made as gifts for other people. The ones I make for myself are all about playability, hence the T-O-M bridge. Looks come a distant second.

Thanks for the tip about milk bottle plastic, I haven't seen that one before. I have used brand new playing cards before to shim a neck, seemed to do the trick. Plus I was able to convince myself that they are just reconstituted wood anyway. That eased my sense of propriotry lol. But as you said I am sure that DB or Gav will have better (or the correct) suggestions.

Thanks again mate
rob

Brendan
02-01-2014, 04:53 AM
For a shim I've seen some discussion around using a piece of paper and then painting it to get more width and stability.

gavinturner
02-01-2014, 05:28 AM
Looking at the wiring for the Les Paul Jnr, I came across this interesting schematic from the Guitar Wiring Blog

http://guitarwiring.blogspot.com.au/2010/09/having-lot-from-only-one-pickup-guitar.html

which provides for multiple tone options from a single, single-coil source. The circuit uses two on-on switches to provide both a tone bypass function and the choice of 2 different capacitance values when the tone circuit is engaged.

Here's how it works. Firstly we start with a standard single-pickup circuit with a volume pot and tone circuit:

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/49w88-image.jpg

We then add two cutoff switches (both controlled from the same physical switch) to provide the ability to completely remove the tone circuit when required:

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/mklt2-image.jpg

To this we then add a second switch that selects between 2 separate capacitor values when the tone circuit is active:

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/c9061-image.jpg

For me this seems like an interesting idea for the Jnr with its single P90. Not sure about the 2 capacitors thing (not sure i could choose two values that i wanted to use) but the bypass is definitely something i will wire in using a push-pull pot. I'll probably just use 500k pots, one push-pull and a .022 tone cap.

Anyone have any thoughts on the possibilities here?

cheers,
Gav.

lawry
03-01-2014, 01:03 AM
Hi Gav,
From the way the bottom schematic is drawn it looks like both capacitors get switched in at once. If that is the case then you only need one capacitor so might as well use the top schematic. If the switch is a toggle between either capacitor then you can chose values depending on which roll-off frequency you want. Remember, passive EQ can only attenuate frequencies, so what you will be doing is selecting the (3dB) roll-off point of the attenuation when you choose the capacitor value. Passive guitar EQ circuits are a low-pass filter and you are just moving the frequency roll-off point when you turn the knob. Keep in mind that an electric guitar has a fundamental frequency range of around 80-1200 Hz (harmonics go up to 6kHz or more) when you select your capacitor. In the schematic below I have shown the roll-off frequencies for several commonly available capacitors to get you started, along with the formula in case you decide to change the pot value from 500k.
NOTE: 1 uF (microfarad) = 1000 nF (nanofarads). E.g. 0.022 uF = 22 nF

Hope this helps in some way.
Cheers.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/pu13l-image.jpg

gavinturner
03-01-2014, 01:36 AM
@Lawry: wow thanks for the detailed response! That's exactly what I was looking for. Sorry about the stuffed up schematic - I drew it myself based on the wiring diagram in the blog. It was meant to be a toggle as you have shown. I understand the theory behind the low pass filter formed by the tone circuit, and that 22uF cap is normally used with 500k pots. I guess this means normally a 7kHz cutoff. What I don't really have a feel for is whether I would like the sound of other caps. Whether a lower or higher cut-off might also sound good to my ear. II guess I'll have to buy some caps and test by ear.

Thanks so much for the time your response took!

Cheers,
Gav.

lawry
03-01-2014, 01:50 AM
Hey Gav,
If you want to play around just buy one of each (greencap) capacitor from Jaycar. They're only about 20 cents each.

WeirdBits
03-01-2014, 02:19 AM
If you are going to Jaycar you could also get yourself a rotary switch (1 pole and X positions, ~ $4) and wire up a test circuit with the rotary as your cap selector. Then just switch back and forth through the caps to find the one(s) you like. Wiring a Jnr with 2 push/pulls would then allow you to bypass your tone circuit with one push/pull and select between two caps with the other.

Or, if you're happy with just one tone cap, you could always skip the push/pulls and just use a No Load pot for your tone control... that gives you bypass at full clockwise without an actual switch.

This may also help: Multi-part video testing and evaluating guitar caps (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92G-jw4TqS4) (and uses P90's in the test)

gavinturner
03-01-2014, 04:46 AM
@Scott: thanks for the suggestion and the video link. I might do just that as a way if evaluating different roll-off frequencies. Thanks dude!

Cheers,
Gav.

gavinturner
09-01-2014, 03:20 AM
hi guys,

Well, the Jnr is finally complete. In terms of wiring, in the end i went with a single push-pull switch to allow the tone circuit to be removed entirely. All up I ended up making the following changes from the stock kit:

Orange Cap for tone
Push-Pull pot to isolate the tone circuit (isolated by default)
oval output jack plate
switchcraft output jack
custom pickgraurd and truss rod cover.
black speed knobs

The tuners, bridge and pickup all remain stock. I would like to get a GFS P90 when cash flow resumes.

I'm really happy with the way it turned out. It plays well even without touching the nut. When i can afford it i'll be buying a few bone nut blanks and this baby will receive a new nut and string height tune. It really growls when overdriven and there's plenty of sustain even though it's a bolt on.

Anyway, see what you think.

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/m561k-black_body.jpg

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/7s4hh-black_back.jpg

cheers,
Gav.

gavinturner
09-01-2014, 03:23 AM
More pics..

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/4t0v0-outside_wide.jpg

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/6wv45-outside_tight.jpg

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/851jn-outside_headstock.jpg

cheers,
Gav.

gavinturner
09-01-2014, 03:24 AM
And finally..

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/6cs2h-inside_front.jpg

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jda67-inside_back.jpg

cheers,
Gav.

stan
09-01-2014, 04:32 AM
only one word , Gav: Awesome!

wokkaboy
09-01-2014, 04:41 AM
wow Gav this is a sweet looking axe, few setbacks on the way but its come up a treat. Glad it plays well. This is definitely worthy of entering Feb GOTM!

pablopepper
09-01-2014, 04:42 AM
Fantastic result Gavin. The pickguard and the knobs were great additions.

Gavin1393
09-01-2014, 04:59 AM
Loving it - hope it's already entered otherwise I might have to enter it for you! :)

gavinturner
09-01-2014, 05:16 AM
@Stan, @Wokka, @Pablo, @Gav - thanks for the kind words. I really *am* proud of this one I must say 8). I will be entering it into GOTM Feb, for no other reason than to see if Andy's midas touch holds true!! LOL.

cheers,
Gav.

lawry
09-01-2014, 06:10 AM
That's a really sweet looking DC Gav. Just makes you want grab it and jam. Quite envious.

gavinturner
09-01-2014, 07:35 AM
@Lawry - thanks dude! It's been rough road for this build, but I have to say I really like this kit. Straightforward to finish and assemble, and somehow elegant in its simplicity. I have enjoyed the build itself so much I'm seriously considering a second.

cheers,
Gav.

adam
09-01-2014, 07:59 AM
Wow, this one is breathtaking. Simple and elegant. Love it! I need to make some time to post some of these amazing guitars to our Facebook page.

Analyst69
09-01-2014, 08:24 AM
Beautiful Junior, Gavin.

Really like the classic look with a few personalised touches.

Nice one.

Cheers

Darren

crundes
09-01-2014, 08:45 AM
Looks amazing Gavin! The little skull decals look awesome :-)

kanelangmaid
09-01-2014, 01:22 PM
Wow Gav. Simply awesome.

I just read that it will be in the Feb GOTM - darn it, tough competition already. No doubt more to enter.

Brendan
09-01-2014, 01:47 PM
Ouch - now I'm really glad I'm not going to have anything for the Feb GOTM! Sweet guitar - beautiful and simple and elegant and, and, and...

gavinturner
09-01-2014, 10:30 PM
@Adam, @Darren, @Tim, @Kane, @Brendan - thanks for the kind words guys. I came out pretty well in the end! @Kane - dont sweat the GOTM - your build is superb! A much stronger contender than the Jnr. Let's hope there isn't a late entry from one of this Forum's many divas - there are way too many amazing builders in this group!!

cheers,
Gav.

WeirdBits
09-01-2014, 11:46 PM
I think you've got three guitars in one there Gav, it looks completely different in every photo. Awesome result, a fantastic looking guitar.

Andyport
10-01-2014, 03:07 AM
Absolutely brilliant Gav...looks so different under those differing light conditions!
I really enjoyed building mine too. They are such a basic guitar, but a lot of fun.
You've done a top job on it, definitely a strong GOTM contender.

BTW...those decals really tie the room together :D

Cheers,
Andy

gavinturner
10-01-2014, 09:11 PM
@Scott - thanks for the kind words. Currently working on my bone nut which should increase the playability by leaps and bounds.
@Andy - LOL, f*ckin A man! Thanks *dude* for all your efforts on them, really appreciate it.

Cheers,
Gav.

sulistbu
24-05-2014, 02:32 AM
Hi Gavin,

Fantastic thread so much so that I bought a Junior DC kit a week ago.
You don't mind if I steal a couple of your idea from this thread do you.
I think I saw you played this babe on your website, Again fantastic effort.

Regards
Budi

gavinturner
24-05-2014, 03:27 AM
No worries Budi, glad you enjoyed the read. Anything you want to take with you go right ahead ;).
The Jnr really is an awesome kit. One of my favourites out of all of them here at PBG I've got to say. It's so simple an elegant, and yet the axe you get out the end is remarkably playable. I love mine and I'm sure you will love yours too....

cheers,
Gav.

lawry
24-05-2014, 02:06 PM
Another really cool axe there, Gav. I love the DCs. Simple lines and oozing class.

kells80aus
25-05-2014, 07:39 AM
Budi's DC is Mahogany. :D I Love Mahogany.

Cheers PK