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stan
21-07-2014, 09:46 AM
Some months ago now, I bought a 1957 Harmony Master acoustic guitar off ebay.
It came from the USA and the owner had looked after it well.

It landed in Australia in great condition, very honest and considerate seller, for under $400 all up. Yep, landed to my door and and old hard case as well. Sometimes you get a bargain.

It was always my plan to refinish this and add a pickup to make it an electrified jazz guitar - not that I can play jazz, but as we all know - that is beside the point.

My inspiration was the Godin 5th Avenue series.

He is the Harmony as initially received:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/040.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/040.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/042.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/042.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/041.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/041.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/039.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/039.jpg.html)

The block markers are simply painted on, and the fret board is a darkened version of something much lighter. The body is all birch.

The model is H945, as can be seen here through the F hole:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/035.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/035.jpg.html)

A bit hard to tell from my pics, but it is really nice condition for its age and what else is on offer of this type.

But I want a different look, so off with the finish. Yes and that was in pretty good nick too, sorry to all the purists out there:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/020.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/020.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/018.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/018.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/017.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/017.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/016.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/016.jpg.html)

stan
21-07-2014, 10:06 AM
A few dings in the back marked out for more sanding, note small crack on the right of the pic too (most of the offers on ebay have full length body cracks...):

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/038.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/038.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/025.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/025.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/027.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/027.jpg.html)

Need to fix this too:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/032.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/032.jpg.html)


Now hand sanded to 400 grit.

stan
21-07-2014, 10:17 AM
The neck has a bit of a forward bow, with a straight edge there is about a 2mm gap above the 7th fret and covers most of them.
Had a bit of a look on the web on repairing these.
They have a truss rod, but it is internal and not accessible...

So here is one way to do it:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/037.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/037.jpg.html)

Clamped up and the pressure on the neck slightly forces it into more of a position of relief - apparently after a few days I should check again. There is actually a heated bar much like my setup that fixes this in a few hours...

Since this will need a refret, I am also toying with possibly changing the fingerboard. This one is very flat, like a classical guitar, and I have been thinking of something more like a 12" radius, and in ebony or rosewood...

There is a small separation up near the nut, so I imagine that with a bit of stream and a scraper, I should be able to get it off... Don't know if it's worth the effort, but I'm tending to think in that direction.

lawry
21-07-2014, 10:28 AM
Wow Stan. Looks like you may have scored really well there. I'm going to be following this thread very closely cos playing jazz is right up there for me.

Oh, and I'm no purist ;-)

gavinturner
21-07-2014, 10:31 AM
Beautiful guitar Stan! I'm very envious over here. That's an amazing project you have yourself there. If you could get the fretboard off it solves all your problems. Still I'm not sure I could successfully attempt it. Good Luck!! Watching your project with keen interest now - this is going to be an even greater guitar when you are done with her.

cheers,
Gav.

stan
21-07-2014, 10:37 AM
Thanks guys. The LP is still having curing woes and subsequent small repairs, so thought I'd get onto this one.

Getting the fretboard off doesn't seem too tough, but I still need a straight neck to put another one on. Also, I need to make it the exact same scale and this will be a fiddle. I can make existing measurements,etc, but a new skill for me.

Nickosaurus
21-07-2014, 11:03 AM
Love it. Always wanted a nice jazz box.

Keen to hear you play some licks on this when it's done!

stan
21-07-2014, 11:12 AM
Thanks Nick - I only hope my repair skills are better than my playing

jarrod
21-07-2014, 11:41 AM
Geez Stan what an intense project. This is a serious restoration and one to be proud of. this in my eyes screams traditional finish and I would be talking to The Gav man and DB on this one.please do keep us informed on the progress of this beauty as we could all learn something from you on this.

Dengreg
21-07-2014, 10:14 PM
Great project Stan. Just love the whole essence.

stan
22-07-2014, 08:10 AM
Thanks Denis and Jarrod

Jarrod, have been asking DB about this a bit.

As for traditional, I wanted to make it a little more modern, but keep it classy.

So it is getting a teak type stain for back and sides - hope something Dingotone suits.
Top will be gloss black or wine red.
Neck the same as the back and black faced headstock.

Hardware is all gold, trapeze tailpiece, gold roller bridge on rosewood bridge mount, black Kent Armstrong handwound jazz pickup, genuine NOS Gibson chicken head style bakerlite knobs. I have a Graphtech nut, but I think I will go bone in the end.

I want to reshape the headstock, which will involve adding timber and relocating the holes.

So quite a ways to go yet.

bargeloobs
22-07-2014, 09:14 AM
What a score man, it looks amazingly clean for it's age. If you're looking into removing/replacing the fingerboard how much trouble would it be to replace the trussrod while you're in there?

stan
22-07-2014, 09:39 AM
yeah Nige, super clean, no real cracks except for the one highlighted. Really pretty nice.

I was thinking about the trussrod thing too, and seeing if I could go adjustable with it as well.

Trouble with all this is that I have a feeling my ideas far outstrip my ability...

wokkaboy
22-07-2014, 09:45 AM
nice looking axe Stan, sounds like you got a bargain. Its a 1957 model and 57 years old. Its in very good condition for its age. Look forward to seeing this restoration progress

bargeloobs
22-07-2014, 10:29 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from stan on July 21, 2014, 18:39

I was thinking about the trussrod thing too, and seeing if I could go adjustable with it as well.

Trouble with all this is that I have a feeling my ideas far outstrip my ability...

I guess it all comes down to what you discover once the fingerboard comes off. I reckon you could pull it off no worries with a bit of research though. It would definitely make the difference between an average setup and an amazing one.

stan
22-07-2014, 10:32 AM
cheers Wokka, I did, it is too might have to put a 57 on the reverse of the headstock, it is , thanks

pablopepper
22-07-2014, 11:12 PM
Ok, I'll say it...Holy crap, you sanded off an almost 60 year old, almost perfect finish! That takes some balls.

Now that's out of the way; cool project. Are you using a neck mount pickup or cutting into the top?

stan
23-07-2014, 08:09 AM
Nige, you are right, I just have to be brave enough to have a look. If worse comes to worse and I do it carefully, then I suppose I could just stick it back on, haha

Yep Pablo, brave or dumb. It had that nice finely cracked patina that looks good too. Thing is , I didn't actually like the look. It was original and very well preserved. If it was a $2000 Gibson, it would have been a dumb move, but this guitar was not likely to be of much inherent value.

Even though I accept there may be some who think I am doing the wrong thing, this way I have fun working on it, having it look how I want and it lives again as a loved instrument, which is really what it is all about.

To add to the difficulty, it's a body mounted pickup, regular humbucker style. There are parallel rails that run down in inside of the top plate, and I am really hoping it fits between them - otherwise I have to cut into the only bracing in the top of the guitar - which might not be very clever....

lawry
23-07-2014, 08:38 AM
Who dares wins, huh?

stan
23-07-2014, 08:44 AM
Yep Lozza, or loses - he who breaks the most toys wins!

wokkaboy
23-07-2014, 11:56 PM
sure you will work out a workaround Stan if the pickup doesn't fit between the rails.
Fair enough if you didn't like the original finish, brave move but well done making the step. As you say you will have a new project and an axe you will cherish. Look forward to seeing the stain go on

stan
24-07-2014, 08:19 AM
First of the stain, Feast Watson Dark Teak.
It brings out the grain pretty well and just the look I was after for the back and sides:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/001.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/001.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/003.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/003.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/002.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/002.jpg.html)

wokkaboy
24-07-2014, 10:07 AM
wow looks fantastic Stan, whats the planned stain colour for the top, dingotone ?

stan
24-07-2014, 10:37 AM
thanks wokka, at this stage high gloss black, or possibly wine red, but I'm thinking the black

wokkaboy
25-07-2014, 01:06 AM
cool Stan, either colour should look awesome and go well with the dark teak sides/back.
what sort of clear coat are you planning ?

stan
25-07-2014, 05:55 AM
I have a tin of minax poly that I am thinking of, or possible acrylic since I have plenty of it, unless a Dingotone clear comes up before then that is suitable

lawry
25-07-2014, 06:24 AM
Righto Stan, you can stop posting now. There hasn't been one thing you've put up that hasn't had me as jealous as. Right from the moment you said how much you paid for it. If this thing gets any hotter it'll start smoking.

wokkaboy
25-07-2014, 06:43 AM
@ Stan - your clear plans sound good, see if you can hang out for Dingotone clear
@ Lozza - you might have to start surfing ebay for a similar bargain. Better get a mini fire extinguisher for it Loz in case it starts smoking haha

stan
25-07-2014, 07:37 AM
haha Lozza, you are too kind mate, although I have to admit being lucky to buy this one. If it's any colsolation, I've seen your vids and you play a lot better than I do

Here you go, get in quick:

$317usd plus postage: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Vintage-Truetone-Archtop-Guitar-Kay-Old-Harmony-Restored-Sunburst-USA-Excellent-/321468156407?pt=Guitar&hash=item4ad8fec9f7

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Vintage-Silvertone-Archtop-Guitar-1950s-Kay-Harmony-Pick-Guard-Star-Burst-Finish-/141351653953?pt=Guitar&hash=item20e9371241



Wokka, would rather use Dingotone if it suits, cant wait until we can get our hands on it

stan
25-07-2014, 07:47 AM
for similar guitars look at Harmony, Kay, Trutone and Silvertone

bargeloobs
25-07-2014, 07:59 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from lawry on July 24, 2014, 15:24
Righto Stan, you can stop posting now. There hasn't been one thing you've put up that hasn't had me as jealous as. Right from the moment you said how much you paid for it. If this thing gets any hotter it'll start smoking.

Yeah my sentiments exactly Lozza, it's fricken bullshit!
All jokes aside and "purists" be damned, if you nail this I reckon you could triple your investment on this project. I absolutely love the direction you're headin' thus far.
Score of the year!

stan
26-07-2014, 05:08 AM
Thanks Nige! I only hope it goes as planned. Making this one for myself, so not too worried about investment.
Second stain layer is on, pics to come. Think I will leave it at that too

gavinturner
26-07-2014, 05:55 AM
Looking awesome Stan! The stain looks fantastic on the back and sides. This is goig to look amazing when done. When you say black gloss, do you mean stained black with clear coats? Or do you mean black solid colour?

cheers,
Gav.

stan
26-07-2014, 06:04 AM
Thanks Gav. Black stain or paint with clear over is what I'm thinking

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/008.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/008.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/007.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/007.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/006.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/006.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010-1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010-1.jpg.html)

stan
27-07-2014, 06:03 AM
Binding scraped:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009-1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009-1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010-2.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010-2.jpg.html)

Gavin1393
27-07-2014, 06:26 AM
Looking awesome!

lawry
27-07-2014, 07:05 AM
Schwing!

stan
27-07-2014, 08:00 AM
thanks Gav and Lozza!

After the clamping, neck is a little better, but not right.

So now my choices are:

Remove fingerboard, sand the neck flat, new fingerboard - possibly put in an adjustable trussrod (my preference is this one)Also can change the radius to 12 or 16 inches.

Defret, sand existing fingerboard into correctness and refret (As advised by DB)Far less complex - but it wouldn't be the Stan way to do it easily... Could possibly sand to new radius as well.

I have been strongly advised against removing the neck, and really there isn't any need to do so.

Up for hearing about any other options

stan
29-07-2014, 01:26 AM
Front in high build primer. Sanded fine and ready for top coats after curing since this pic.
Top will be painted black and high gloss clear over that.
Edges/sides got another coat of stain, not as dark as in the pic, you can still easily see the grain:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/020-1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/020-1.jpg.html)

lawry
29-07-2014, 06:12 AM
Only thing I could suggest to make things a little easier on you is to post it to me and I'll do it.
After that I'll send it back to you when I'm sure everything has settled and it plays well. Honest.
8-)

stan
29-07-2014, 07:06 AM
tempting offer mate, you'd probably do a better job - not sure I'd see it again though...

stan
29-07-2014, 09:14 AM
Now, I know that I should have done any body modifications before attempting to do finishing, but I'm impatient and excited to see what it may turn out like.

Once this is right then the mods for the pickup and controls will take place before any clear layers.... perhaps :(


As such, the first layer of black 8-) :

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/022.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/022.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/025-1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/025-1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/c0002fb8-a3a1-4f73-8910-d303f25c649e.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/c0002fb8-a3a1-4f73-8910-d303f25c649e.jpg.html)

pablopepper
29-07-2014, 09:19 PM
The solid top with stained sides looks rad.

stan
29-07-2014, 10:15 PM
thanks PP, stole the idea from bargeloobs' Blacktop LP

Nickosaurus
30-07-2014, 01:30 AM
Looks great man. Are you still going to do wine red or just straight black?

Satin or gloss?

This is looking awesome

stan
30-07-2014, 02:32 AM
Hey Nick, thanks, it was going to be one or the other- so black it is - high gloss for this one

stan
30-07-2014, 05:20 AM
closer look at the black, can still see the grain through the paint, I like it:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/1efa52fd-934c-4aff-a40d-088ca496b4b4.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/1efa52fd-934c-4aff-a40d-088ca496b4b4.jpg.html)

jarrod
30-07-2014, 05:26 AM
Mmmmm better let me gloss this one Stan and the payment for me doing it will be no return postage. What a little beauty you have there.

stan
30-07-2014, 08:47 AM
hahaha Jarrod, whilst your painting skills are undisputed I feel your ability to give it back would be somewhat lacking...

jarrod
30-07-2014, 09:15 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from stan on July 29, 2014, 17:47
hahaha Jarrod, whilst your painting skills are undisputed I feel your ability to give it back would be somewhat lacking...


cant lie Stan , there wouldn't be a cat in hells chance of you ever seeing it again.

stan
30-07-2014, 11:04 PM
just wait till all the cool stuff goes on.....

wokkaboy
31-07-2014, 01:12 AM
coming along nicely Stan, clear coats on should bring out the grain more

stan
31-07-2014, 03:37 AM
Thanks Wokka, they certainly do - first layer, acrylic clear, still wet, so looks glossy, dries a little flatter for the first layers. This is because the wood is stained, but not sealed as such:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/001-1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/001-1.jpg.html)

wokkaboy
31-07-2014, 04:11 AM
is that clear applied with a spray gun or can spray Stan ? looking very shiny !

stan
31-07-2014, 04:22 AM
Spray can. Very shiney, but wet, first few coats will be a bit matte, then they will gloss up as they build, dry timber soaks up a bit

gavinturner
31-07-2014, 01:15 PM
Looking great Stan! Keep up the good work. Can't wait to see her finished.

cheers,
Gav.

kells80aus
01-08-2014, 03:04 AM
I am a bit towards looking after old stuff as it was, But sometimes you have to be bold in order to repair the ravages of time. The body looks georgeous with all it's clothes stripped off. I think you made the right decision to strip her back. I guess I know whoi will be the first to make use of my new slotted straight edge and fret rocker. Not to mention AJ's radius block. :)
I'm only a few pages into this diary. so I'll keep reading. Love what your doing.

PK

kells80aus
01-08-2014, 03:20 AM
Ok Made it to the end. Looking pretty nice.

On the pickup if you cut those internals to fit a Humbucker I'd say the deck will warp.

As an alternative there are Graphtech piezo bridges, as well as Humbuckers that hang off the edge of the neck.
What I don't know about the graphteck piezo bridges is how the hell they are wired up. Each bridge saddle has a little piezo in it, so that has to be six wires, that must all join up some where. The down side of this idea is they cost a bucket load.

Hmmmm. Maybe P90's or mini Hums.

Then you have to put all the wiring in. it's all got to be a headache.

I'm keen to see which way you go with it.

:D PK

stan
01-08-2014, 05:13 AM
Thanks Paul, believe me , I didn't treat it lightly sanding away an original finish, and some will disagree. That's fine, but I like it.
Looking back, A bridge mount would have been a good idea, or one of those pickgaurd mount ones.
The internals are a simple pair of parallel rails down the body, same as this:

http://harmony.demont.net/kamikazie/images/22_025.jpg

My plan is to make a small box shape that will go through the pickup hole an glue to the inside of the top plate, to mount the pickup in. Hopefully no having to cut the rails at all and therefore not decreasing any strength...

And yes mate, at a later date, might hit you up to borrow some tools and AJs block...

kells80aus
01-08-2014, 05:58 AM
Hi Stan

so those rails are only about 60mm apart(Neck block width) and looks to taper a bit to the end block.
Also looks like they are shaped to the arch of the top as well.
Humbuckers may be too wide and deep, p90's are about 82mm wide.
I'm sure you'll work out something.

PK

PK

stan
01-08-2014, 06:18 AM
thanks mate, dog eared P90's would have been a good choice, but I have a Kent Armstrong hand wound jazz 'bucker that just has to go in it... time to measure it up...

kells80aus
01-08-2014, 06:44 AM
It would be nice if you could get inside her and put an extra rail down each side of those existing rails.

PK

stan
01-08-2014, 09:45 AM
Now there is a thought - with a pickup hole cut in, there might be enough to get a rail in and between that and the f hole to hold it in place while it dries...

Or just enough space to reinforce around the pickup hole.

Make a template of the top and transfer it onto the reinforcement so it follows the shape inside...

stan
25-08-2014, 10:00 AM
Well it's been a while, computer was out of action, but things have moved on.

Exterior coats on the body are done:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/052.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/052.jpg.html)

With some bow in the neck and my desire for a different radius fret board (and I dont like the original), off it comes:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/056.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/056.jpg.html)

Combination of heat gun, heated putty knife and wedging the fret board:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/057.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/057.jpg.html)

Last bit of fret board attaches quite well to the block that takes up the overhang...

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/058.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/058.jpg.html)

Time for the steam iron:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/065.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/065.jpg.html)

The glue separated nicely, but the steam damaged the surface:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/064.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/064.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/063.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/063.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/066.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/066.jpg.html)

No problem, I am the paint it more than once master... haha:

Rub back - yay, only the clear was damaged:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/067.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/067.jpg.html)

Mask up and re clear:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/085.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/085.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/096.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/096.jpg.html)

Check the flatness of the neck:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/094.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/094.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/091.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/091.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/092.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/092.jpg.html)

Not perfectly flat...
So, steam it and clamp it
or just put pressure on it
or sand it?

I do know I want a Tassie Blackwood finger board...

pablopepper
26-08-2014, 02:18 AM
Maybe rout a channel for a truss rod?

wokkaboy
26-08-2014, 02:25 AM
coming along well Stan. Tazzy blackwood fretboards look great

stan
26-08-2014, 04:47 AM
yep Pablo, was thinking exactly that, truss rod would make it very easy to get right, just have never done it before.
I am thinking this is the way to go though...

Cheers wokka, yet another skill to learn, time for some radiused sanding blocks

bargeloobs
26-08-2014, 09:28 AM
I was under the impression this bad boy already had a trussrod of some description hiding in the depths. You're in there now Stan you may as well go the whole hog and throw one in. Looking sweet btw;-)

maxaxe
26-08-2014, 09:50 AM
Determination seems to be winning the day here, especially after that alarming steam setback.
Fascinating watching this project develop - keep it happening.

stan
26-08-2014, 10:26 AM
Thanks Nige, so did I. If it has the steel reinforced neck I thought it had, it's very well hidden.
It makes sense to do it now the finger board is off, looks like I have some reading to do...

From what I gather, I route a channel and pop one in. I have also seen fingerboards partly routed to fit over the top as well. Happy for the experts to set me straight here.

Cheers Max, someone smart would have realised super heated water might possibly damage a painted finish... Inexperience is the mother of determination, haha

stan
18-09-2014, 12:21 PM
Some help please team:

OK: I have a truss rod, a router and a fingerboard blank made of blackwood. Some fretwire, and a radiussed sanding block: 12"

I'm pretty happy about making the fingerboard.

Adding the truss rod is another matter.

Is it simply a case of routing for the truss rod?
Anything special I need to consider?
It has one "open" side ,it appear that faces down...
I have seen full depth routes and ones that partially go into the fingerboard as well (sandwiching the truss rod between, with the fingerboard having a fine rout as well...)

I have marked out a centre line on the neck, and the next step is the route...

Oh, this is the truss rod:

370mm Martin style
http://luthierssupplies.com.au/product_info.php?cPath=51_81&products_id=175
http://luthierssupplies.com.au/popup_image.php?pID=175&invis=0

Their instructions:

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

‘Martin style’ truss rods must be installed with the open taped side down towards the back of the neck and the flat aluminium side up towards the fingerboard.

We recommend that the slot for the truss rod be cut 0.5-1.0mm deeper than the depth of the truss rod. A 0.5-1.0mm fillet of timber should be used to cover the truss rod and fill the 0.5-1.0mm space above it.

The truss rod can be glued in place with some epoxy glue on the sides and top only, then the fillet of timber is placed on top of the truss rod and held or clamped in place while the epoxy dries.

The fillet and glue are then sanded flat to the top surface of the neck leaving a flat surface for the fingerboard to be glued.

IMPORTANT – Do not allow any glue to go on or into the open/taped side of the truss rod or around the nut as this may cause it to jam.

jarrod
18-09-2014, 12:27 PM
Groove side down Stan so the flat plate can push against your fret board. slot must be a nice tight to push in fit and sit .5mm under the neck face. then run some tape along the top so she don't rattle and glue your fret board on.I don't glue them , I make them a good fit.

stan
18-09-2014, 12:32 PM
Thanks Jarrod, so tape is enough, I don't have to put a slither of timber over the top?

So if I have it right - route a tight channel, .5mm below neck height, groove side down, tape and fingerboard?

Groove side has tape on it - remove?

Trick will be placement at the headstock end

stan
18-09-2014, 12:36 PM
i presume the tape on top only goes on the truss rod to make up the depth, and not across it onto the exposed neck - otherwise you would be gluing the fingerboard onto the tape...?

jarrod
18-09-2014, 12:39 PM
Na leave there tape on , You could put a slither of wood in but I let it press on the fret board. Have your hex head just under your nut like your LP . don't router it too long you want it to bottom out with the hex head in the right position.This how the great profit DB taught me and it works a treat.

jarrod
18-09-2014, 12:41 PM
sorry Stan yes tape only on the trust rod

stan
18-09-2014, 12:42 PM
cheers mate, time to make a neck routing jig , me thinks...

stan
19-09-2014, 05:07 AM
toys and supplies for the new fingerboard (old one also in shot):

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/016-1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/016-1.jpg.html)

jarrod
19-09-2014, 01:36 PM
Great stuff Stan

stan
19-09-2014, 11:39 PM
Thanks Jarrod, I think making a routing jig for the truss rod pocket in situ will be the biggest trick... Everything I have watched on youtube is done on a neck blank with nice even sides. Either an angled fence and shallow router passes or find a way to add a guide to the neck and several dremmel passes

bargeloobs
20-09-2014, 08:30 PM
Wow Stan, you've officially taken the leap into true luthier territory here, will be watching with keen interest (and taking notes)

stan
21-09-2014, 05:18 AM
haha, Nigel, I think enthusiasm outweighs ability, but no going back now

bargeloobs
21-09-2014, 06:46 AM
You'll be fine mate!

lawry
21-09-2014, 08:03 PM
Good on you I say, Stan. This is something I would like to try one day but not yet. I'm keen to see your progress.

stan
22-09-2014, 03:03 AM
Thanks Lozza, do what I did mate, jump in! Your work is nice mate, you'd have no worries.

The real thing here is to get plenty of advice, plan it well and go slowly: a small slip up can be fixed, a big one ruins the neck and possibly the guitar...

stan
07-03-2015, 04:38 PM
OK update time!

After an attack of bravery (or stupidity) I decided to get that truss rod neck pocket routed.

Use this with the Stewmac Baseplate addition:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009_1.jpg.html)

Had this measured and drawn up for a while. Was waiting until I worked out a clever jig. Couldnt think of one, so went freehand!

Turned out like this:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/010_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/015.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/015.jpg.html)

stan
07-03-2015, 04:41 PM
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/014.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/014.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/020_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/020_1.jpg.html)

Filled that gap with a bit of Titebond and shavings, just to be sure, not taking this apart again:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/021_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/021_1.jpg.html)

stan
07-03-2015, 04:46 PM
clamped on the old fingerboard to see if it all seems well. I will be making a new blackwood one...

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/017_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/017_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/018_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/018_1.jpg.html)

It seats well, but might have to make the route further towards the neck join to get the adjustment bit below the level of the top of the headstock, by sliding it back further.

Or put a plate on the headstock, or both

kells80aus
07-03-2015, 05:23 PM
Well done Stan. Fabulous job putting that truss rod in. Neck building is what you've done, I am sure it is on most of our list of 'to do' but very few have.
I'm sort of looking forward to hearing this play.

Cheers PK

kells80aus
07-03-2015, 05:27 PM
On The pickup side(and after my work on the Cort and Epi) I would be putting a piezo under the saddle. and poping a pre-amp jack straight out the middle of the tail block. By the size of that hole in the tail it looks like this may have had a pickup at some stage.
But yes I know you have a special pickup for her. :)

PK

stan
08-03-2015, 05:48 AM
thanks PK, semi neck building I think. Dunno if I could shape one from scratch yet...

under saddle piezo is not a bad idea as an addition. I don't think it had one in the past, no evidence of one at all - no control holes etc, the bridge was full floating. The hole is from a strap lug pin that was there originally.

gavinturner
08-03-2015, 06:20 AM
Stan, you've just reached legendary status. Awesome job!

Cheers,
Gav.

kells80aus
08-03-2015, 07:02 AM
Hi Stan, so you understand what I mean by a pre-amp jack.
It is one of these sorts of setups. quite unobtusive, except you need to velcro the battery in some how.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/For-Classical-Acoustic-Guitar-Ukulele-Endpin-Jack-Preamp-Pickup-Soft-Piezo-Kit-/381138253037?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_15&hash=item58bd9c34ed

PK

stan
08-03-2015, 02:42 PM
@Gav, haha, I've reached persistent status you mean. None of these are skills I haven't seen done here on this forum

stan
08-03-2015, 02:48 PM
PK: yep I know exactly what you mean, I've seen passive ones as well. Thanks for the link.
Not sure how well they balance with HB type pups though. Worth a thought all the same.
It is an acoustic guitar actually, so it's sound is pretty good, could always just mic it up.

kells80aus
08-03-2015, 03:27 PM
Gav, Stan is the acoustic god. that's all there is to it. LOL

PK

stan
08-03-2015, 04:06 PM
PK, that's stretching it a bit mate. Gav Bramley makes some very nice ones, and from scratch too.... But thanks for the kind support mate

bargeloobs
09-03-2015, 11:08 AM
Beautiful work Stan, I think all your extra hard work is going to add up to one sweet axe at the finish line. So you're gonna make a new fretboard from scratch?

wokkaboy
09-03-2015, 11:25 AM
nice work Stan, well done freehand routing the truss rod route it looks very straight !
And only 14 posts off Overlord status !

stan
09-03-2015, 03:46 PM
@ Wokka: used a smaller router bit, easier and more accurate to do in a few passes, and went slowly I can assure you. It's wobblier than it looks but the rod fits in snug. As long as I get no rattle then it will be fine

@Bargey, thanks mate, only get one chance at this one, so got to try and get it right. And yes, fret board from scratch

stan
09-03-2015, 04:55 PM
route slightly lengthened, fits better now....

Must be fingerboard time. At this I can afford to mess this up, unlike the guitar

wokkaboy
09-03-2015, 06:06 PM
nice one Stan, sure the fingerboard will turn out fine.
Only 3 posts for the Overlord !

stan
09-03-2015, 06:10 PM
Cheers Woks, I'll simply use the old one as a template and have a Stew Mac radius block
Overlord, eh: why thanks for pointing that out, here's another!

stan
04-04-2015, 04:52 PM
more pics, because we love them.
fretboard building time.
Piece of blackwood fretboard blank from the interweb, ALS I think.

Stewmac 12" radius sanding block and 120, 270, 400 and 800 auto quality glass paper

Blank is taper cut with a jigsaw to approx shape, and stuck with double sided tape to the top edge of my home made saw horse.

Then sand until you get a fretboard - easy!

Note the use of pencil lines across the blank, as it is sanded the edges of the lines get sanded off, leaving the section in the centre. When the line is gone, the blank is completely sanded all the way across. Also the section of line left in the centre shows of the sanding is even.
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/026.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/026.jpg.html)


After initial sanding with 120 the blank slowly takes shape. Note the lighter section in the centre where the centre of the block is yet to touch the blank. Here you can see pencil line sections in the centre and you can make out the unsanded section:
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/027_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/027_1.jpg.html)

stan
04-04-2015, 04:59 PM
This is simply my take on how to do it: there might be better ways to do it by hand, like making a jig or whatever, but this works fine...

When the lines are fully gone, time to go up through the grits 270, 400 and 800
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/029.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/029.jpg.html)

without the sandpaper, you can check the radius of the board with the block:
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/030_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/030_1.jpg.html)

nice radius:
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/025_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/025_1.jpg.html)

stan
04-04-2015, 05:03 PM
nice figure in the blackwood too!

with the sanding mostly done, I noticed these small voids in the timber that were partially filled with sanding dust...
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/031_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/031_1.jpg.html)

I smeared the whole fretboard with CA (super ) glue. It mixes with the dust and locks it into the voids and acts like filler.
It also brings out the grain:
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/032_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/032_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/033.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/033.jpg.html)

stan
04-04-2015, 05:05 PM
After drying, sand again.
This has mineral turps on it to show up the figure after all the sanding is done:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/040_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/040_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/042_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/042_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/041_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/041_1.jpg.html)

stan
04-04-2015, 05:09 PM
lets see how it might look:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/046.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/046.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/045.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/045.jpg.html)

mmm, I like it.

Time for final shaping, fret slots and wire.... some builders slot before shaping, some after, opinion is pretty much split on this one.

Total sanding time was about an hour to 75 mins, not too bad and all by hand

gavinturner
04-04-2015, 06:10 PM
Stan that grain on the fretboard looks amazing! Awesome job with the radius block!

cheers,
Gav.

stan
04-04-2015, 06:40 PM
Thanks Gav, yep sure lucked out on this chunk of wood, might have to do this one in Dingotone!

kells80aus
04-04-2015, 07:29 PM
that tiger stripe is gorgeous.
You're batting up there with the Big boys now. ;)

PK

Nickosaurus
04-04-2015, 07:47 PM
Id just oil it and call it a day Stan. Has a beautiful colour :) great work

stan
04-04-2015, 07:53 PM
Thanks PK, getting there slowly mate
Thanks Niko, I agree, that's exactly what will happen

stan
05-04-2015, 09:04 AM
What I need to do is frighten myself and put some calipers across it at various intervals to check for consistent thickness.
And flatten the neck side properly...

robin
05-04-2015, 04:34 PM
Not even in my wildest dreams would I consider a project like this Stan. It's looking great mate.

keloooe
05-04-2015, 06:29 PM
Very nice board there Stan!

stan
05-04-2015, 06:42 PM
very kind Robin, thanks.
thanks Callum, got to be lucky sometimes.

My next dilemma is how to trim up the sides properly...

dingobass
05-04-2015, 07:18 PM
Just PM'd my answer, Stan..
Hope it makes sense, Sunday roast, red wine.... You know how it is :)

That is a rather tasty chunk of tree, now that I have seen it I reckon it would almost be a crime to fret it :)

keloooe
05-04-2015, 07:54 PM
Fretless 57 Harmony? Sounds pretty neat if I say so myself!

dingobass
05-04-2015, 09:05 PM
Yep, away with the speed humps I say! :)

dingobass
05-04-2015, 09:07 PM
Hey Pesty, did I read that you have a busted stop piece on your Epi?

If so, let me know the centre measurements of the posts and I will have a look in the man cave to see if I have one lurking in a dark corner..

dingobass
05-04-2015, 09:08 PM
I meant tail piece.... Half a bottle of excellent Merlot and several beers in.......

kells80aus
06-04-2015, 06:56 AM
Hi Stan

came across this today. I thought it may give you some clues on the fingerboard

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZ-yZ5G09pU

One thing I noticed is that they use Tite-bond for ALL glueing. none of this airplane glue or superglue.

PK

dingobass
06-04-2015, 10:20 AM
Wot PK said.

When you get to the glueing down of the fingerboard, dont forget to place a length of sellotape over the truss rod :)
It also helps with alignment if you cut the ends off two small screws, drill a few shallow holes in the neck at nut end and heel and insert them pointy end up so they stick out a mill or two.
Then line up your board, clamp it down so it punches a few holes. These become your registration points and also stop the board slipping out of alignment when you glue it.
It is easier to get a nice even spread of glue if you use a small foam roller, these can be found in most $2 shops or art supplies.
I run an even coat of glue on the neck and board then line it up and clamp.
You can use your radius block as a clamping caul.

stan
15-06-2015, 07:10 AM
havent updated here for a while, and will soon.

Thanks for the excellent tips DB and PK.

Sorry guys, but this one will have frets

stan
08-09-2015, 02:33 PM
have done a bit more...

slots cut for fingerboard. don't mind the cheapo mitre box, they're square and straight. Same scale as the original, more on that later...

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009_2.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/009_2.jpg.html)

Truss rod in and some sellotape went over the top as per DB recommendation. Blue tape is for centre line, ends of finger board have one marked as well.

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/012_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/012_1.jpg.html)

Titebond smeared on and clamps, and some clamps and a clamp or two...

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/014_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/014_1.jpg.html)

stan
08-09-2015, 02:36 PM
well it seems to have stuck, dried overnight with the clamps on;

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/047_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/047_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/048.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/048.jpg.html)

the original had a wood packer under here, will probably do the same, but the gap looks kind of cool

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/049.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/049.jpg.html)

stan
08-09-2015, 02:40 PM
yet to be trimmed/sanded flush.
just realised that the overhang at the body will be hard to get right.... oh well

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/050.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/050.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/051.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/051.jpg.html)


using the very awesome CS Guitarcraft fret ruler (thanks Pabs, it rocks - get one guys, they are great) , you can see there is a tiny bit of relief, and a bit more, I'm sure, when I string it up.And perhaps a little less when frets go in, who knows...

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/052_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/052_1.jpg.html)

stan
08-09-2015, 02:46 PM
you can see the fret board is quite thick, but the neck is thin, and I routed a truss rod slot where there wasn't one, and I bet its pretty thin in parts. So it was left beefy for feel and strength.
Disadvantage will be needing a tall nut and height of the pickup when I do that. It will have a floating bridge, so it should all be fine.

So, about the scale... Tape is to highlight the 12th fret:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/054.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/054.jpg.html)

or for metric:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/055.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/055.jpg.html)

so scale length is 25 1/8 inches, so in between PRS and Fender... so the floating bridge should simplify intonation (or knowing my luck, turn it into a nightmare...)

wokkaboy
08-09-2015, 03:15 PM
nice work Stan good to see some progress on this. The fingerboard at the bridge end will need some support won't it ? Thats if you have Hendrix sized fingers to reach the high frets.
Will be a job to clean up the fingerboard edges without damaging the neck finish. Nice looking fret saw. The fret slots look nice and uniform. Well done.
If you own more clamps I would have used more clamps gluing the fingerboard to the neck but sounds like its bonded well.

dingobass
08-09-2015, 03:36 PM
Stan....
I am impressed :)
Keep this up and I will be posting pain in the butt fretboard and headstock repairs!

You are nailing this because you are taking your time and investing a heck of a lot of passion into this refurb.

stan
08-09-2015, 04:31 PM
thanks Wokka, yes I think it will need support. However, if you look at a violin fingerboard they overhang by miles. Instead of a block underneat I might just put a dowel at the end in the centre - it will be supported but look floating.

Fret saw is a Stewmac one, bought a bunch of stuff all at once a while ago. Shipping is expensive so I made the best of it. Got their dremmel base at the same time...

the fretboard had a centre line and all the fret slots were drawn in place before the cutting began, than sanded off later with 400, 800, 1500. Will probably sand more before fretting

I agree about the clamps, but it does seem well bonded for the whole length. I am thinking about getting a mini block plane for the edges (cant have enough tools) and then final sand for the last bit. The neck is stained, but no clear, so I am not too worried about the process: slow and easy should be fine

Fret board is the same length and position as the original, I have no idea how the higher frets were reached. I have hands more like Humphrey B Bear rather than Jimi Hendrix, unfortunately

stan
08-09-2015, 04:39 PM
DB - thanks for the kind words.

I am learning a lot as I go, so going slow is the only way, haha.

Fixing lost causes seems to be a theme of mine...

You are right though, she is a great old girl and deserves to look and play well in the end. I love old archtops and jazz boxes, and this is as close as I am likely to get, so I'll do my best.

I am thinking of only having side markers on this, as the fretboard looks too nice.

I don't know how I'd go with block inlays , which I really like, but perhaps dots might be the best of both worlds. If I could get that gold/antique white MOP look, that would be ideal. I'd rather use the real thing and not a transfer though. The originals were badly stenciled blocks, which you can see in the background of the fret saw shot.

wokkaboy
08-09-2015, 04:47 PM
I reckon just side dot markers Stan. Keep the fretboard as it is with just frets will look cool. Or dot markers aren't too difficult you can get smaller than 6mm MOP markers

stan
08-09-2015, 05:30 PM
i think you are right wokks, i'll start with side dots and see how i like it. small dots near the edge but on the front might look good too...

crundes
08-09-2015, 05:30 PM
Damn this is looking nice! Can't wait to see this one finished.

stan
08-09-2015, 05:34 PM
thanks crudes! you should see the hardware i have for this - had some custom stuff made....

andrewdosborne
08-09-2015, 07:11 PM
Top notch job Stan, great seeing this come together.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

jarrod
08-09-2015, 08:55 PM
wow Stan I ain't spent too much time on the forum lately due too busy busy with my own stuff but mate this old girl is coming up a treat. Some great work your doing .

stan
09-09-2015, 02:29 PM
thanks Andrew, er sorry Chips

thanks Jarrod, yep, getting there slowly

wokkaboy
09-09-2015, 02:32 PM
Stan you don't want to upset Ponch or he will be around with a big ticket for you later !

one question Stan I assume this is a left hander, whats the deal does the bridge have a piezo pickup ? Are there any volume or equaliser controls on it ? probably weren't around in 1957 !

stan
09-09-2015, 02:55 PM
yes wokks , it will be a leftie

I have a kent armstrong full size jazz humbucker going into it - yet to cut the big hole... the stiffening rails inside seem to be the exact distance apart to fit one. if not, some fancy modding coming up.

it will be single pup with tone and volume controls - chicken head knobs mounted on the body

wokkaboy
09-09-2015, 03:00 PM
sounds good Stan, I got a Kent Armstrong mini humbucker to go in my tele build. Going to have to try a Babicz bridge for that !

stan
09-09-2015, 05:28 PM
that sounds nice, love babicz stuff

stan
10-09-2015, 02:35 PM
These have arrived : (for this resto and for my ES kit yet to be properly started...)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/11911533_1592457241018247_1225764616_n.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/11911533_1592457241018247_1225764616_n.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/11911554_1592457237684914_1397535345_n.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/11911554_1592457237684914_1397535345_n.jpg.html)

wokkaboy
10-09-2015, 02:41 PM
wow they look speccy Stan, where are they from ?
Looks like tinted clear perspex with some sort of dye or colouring ?

stan
10-09-2015, 03:00 PM
they are really nice.

they are molded, the colours are mixed as the plastic is poured into the mold, so every one is different.

they are hand made by a guy called Matt Haramis in the USA. He is on the Electric Guitar Builders Resource page on FB.

Great guy, easy to deal with, good prices, can do any colour and has a range of knob shapes etc.

He did the truss rod covers custom off a pic I sent him. I can PM his details to anyone who wants them. I was his first Aussie customer.

The knobs are to suit standard CTS pots and even have tightening screws. Very pro job.

wokkaboy
10-09-2015, 03:22 PM
nice one Stan, little touches like these can really set an axe apart from one with more stock hardware.

3 posts off 3k bro !

stan
10-09-2015, 03:31 PM
I just like things to look cool, i guess this is my idea of cool

what do i get at 3K ?

wokkaboy
10-09-2015, 03:34 PM
haha 3000 posts Stan you get 60% of an entry pass to the GAStronomist lounge !
100% pass gets you past security

stan
10-09-2015, 03:36 PM
3K posts, I guess I can look in the window!

wokkaboy
10-09-2015, 04:01 PM
well done Stan you are only the 2nd forumite to reach 3k.
Sorry mate its one way glass hahahha

stan
10-09-2015, 04:09 PM
gosh i must sure talk some crap then...

wokkaboy
10-09-2015, 04:18 PM
not necessarily Stan, it means you have helped alot of builders on the way !

dingobass
10-09-2015, 05:48 PM
Those surrounds and knobs look the Biz :)

stan
10-09-2015, 06:07 PM
they are nice DB, cant wait to get them on

keloooe
10-09-2015, 08:12 PM
Congrats on 3k Stan!!! Also the knobs and surrounds look amazing!

Fretworn
11-09-2015, 11:26 AM
Can't wait to see this finished.

kimball492
11-09-2015, 07:25 PM
Hi Looks fantastic You've made a great job of removing the original finish. Look forward to seeing what you do with this
Well done

Swinging Beef
01-10-2015, 12:01 PM
THis thread is blowing my tiny mind!

stan
15-10-2015, 12:20 PM
edges of fretboard planed and sanded to blend in:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/007_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/007_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/006_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/006_1.jpg.html)

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/008_1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/008_1.jpg.html)

some restaining to do again on the neck edges, no worries.

also to go on is the generously provided blackwood headstock veneer (many thanks DB you are a true gent and Wokka for getting onto him), which should blend it all in nicely

stan
15-10-2015, 12:23 PM
the fretboard was left deliberately thick. the neck gets quite thin, especially where the truss rod pops out, and adds extra strength to the neck, i hope.

i have wide ish hands with shortish fingers and it feels fine to me, so you wont have to have hands like Steve Vai or Buckethead to play it...

wokkaboy
15-10-2015, 12:55 PM
great to see some progress on the build Stan, looking great. Fingerboard looks good. Nice to have some meat to play with and as you say give the thinner parts near the nut/TR some more strength

stan
15-10-2015, 02:39 PM
thanks Wokks.
Yeah i imagine it is getting a bit thin at the point the TR exits the headstock, but should be fine now....
will need to do a custom tall nut for it

wokkaboy
15-10-2015, 02:41 PM
Stan yes you will need a tall nut blank !
Is the fingerboard radiused (looks like it in the photos) and what radius you going for ?

stan
15-10-2015, 03:26 PM
yes it's radiused, 12".

dingobass
15-10-2015, 03:50 PM
Looks like you have nailed this rebuild Stan.

I am almost ready to forgive you for sanding the original finish off it now LOL :) :p

stan
15-10-2015, 04:06 PM
thanks DB, wont tell you what i painted it with then...

might have to get your fine skills up and make a custom bone nut for it

dingobass
15-10-2015, 05:35 PM
No worries Stan, just let me know the dimensions and I will whip you one up.

stan
15-10-2015, 05:51 PM
No worries Stan, just let me know the dimensions and I will whip you one up.

that would be nice, thanks

I'll send an email with pics and rulers and stuff soon

jarrod
15-10-2015, 08:45 PM
Stan I'm impressed and it takes alot to impress me now days. Dam fine job sir.

stan
17-10-2015, 06:38 PM
nice words Jarrod, thankyou

stan
14-10-2016, 01:51 PM
time for some updating:

Frets!! I think some of these will be redos..., live and learn

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/E953B8DA-8C22-47CA-A5C6-91931C22DDC1.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/E953B8DA-8C22-47CA-A5C6-91931C22DDC1.jpg.html)

stan
14-10-2016, 01:52 PM
This is where the pickup will go:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/A8CA546A-59E1-4EE6-8D35-447F0118DBCE.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/A8CA546A-59E1-4EE6-8D35-447F0118DBCE.jpg.html)

stan
14-10-2016, 01:54 PM
Just sitting there, but should look like this:

Custom pickup ring, knobs and truss rod cover by Matthew Haramis of Haramis Musical Hardware in the USA

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/888FB87C-99A8-4F61-BF74-7DC1541758B7.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/888FB87C-99A8-4F61-BF74-7DC1541758B7.jpg.html)

stan
14-10-2016, 01:55 PM
Truss rod cover

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/79B91123-2948-48C1-9565-F890979ED2F9.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/79B91123-2948-48C1-9565-F890979ED2F9.jpg.html)

stan
14-10-2016, 01:56 PM
Knobs - chicken head for retro cool

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/4A3E7617-5907-4BC3-8E2F-51CED71FDA34.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/4A3E7617-5907-4BC3-8E2F-51CED71FDA34.jpg.html)

stan
14-10-2016, 01:57 PM
Hopefully will look a bit like this:

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128/louisruby/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/9250DBDA-81C5-4048-80C7-D8F5A74E490C.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/louisruby/media/Guitar/Harmony%20Jazz%20project/9250DBDA-81C5-4048-80C7-D8F5A74E490C.jpg.html)

wokkaboy
14-10-2016, 02:06 PM
cool great stuff Stan, when did this project start ?

Looks like some good progress and love the TRC, pup surrounds and control knobs !

Dedman
14-10-2016, 02:22 PM
ooooooh! nice!

stan
14-10-2016, 02:39 PM
Thanks Wokka, must be going on 2 years! This is one case where acrylic actually worked for me...

wokkaboy
14-10-2016, 03:03 PM
all good Stan glad the acrylic finally cured and the project is back on the go again !

just checked the diary started July 2014 !

andrewdosborne
14-10-2016, 05:43 PM
Way to go Stan glad the acrylic played ball with this one. Looks great

Sent from my Moto G (4) using Tapatalk

Chuck
15-10-2016, 07:00 AM
Awesome Stan - it's great to see a thread pop up from before my time here that I now need to follow with interest and awe!

stan
15-10-2016, 08:00 AM
all good Stan glad the acrylic finally cured and the project is back on the go again !

just checked the diary started July 2014 !

actually cured quite quickly, no idea what was different...

stan
15-10-2016, 08:01 AM
Awesome Stan - it's great to see a thread pop up from before my time here that I now need to follow with interest and awe!

thanks Chuck, you are building some great stuff yourself

Zandit75
15-10-2016, 09:49 AM
Awesome Stan - it's great to see a thread pop up from before my time here that I now need to follow with interest and awe!

Yep, I'm with Chuck, this is a great thread that I wouldn't have known existed if you hadn't updated. Great looking work!

BTW, did you get my PM about the capacitors the other week?

Fretworn
17-10-2016, 10:39 AM
12 months between posts, but it good to see the progress.

Fuzzbeard
17-10-2016, 03:45 PM
I had to go back to the beginning of this thread to see where you started from and what an amazing restoration this is!

Zandit75
20-10-2016, 06:29 PM
Stan, just wanted to let you know that I received my Capacitors today.
I tried to send you a PM, but you inbox is full!
Thank you once again!!

stan
22-10-2016, 01:07 PM
yeah, it's taken a while, hole is now cut for the pickup, scratched up the top a bit, oh well, one step forward...

glad the caps arrived Zandit, welcome mate