Just before completing my JB-4 project (made for my daughter), I decided to pull the trigger on an IB-5 for myself.
After it arrived, I excitedly opened the box, and made sure everything was there, and it would all fit - my main concern is with the output jack not fitting into it's home. However, after reading a few other threads from people who have worked on IB-4 kits, the general consensus is to get a 12/13mm drill bit (not spade), a piece of so-sized dowel with some sandpaper around it, or a round file to work around the hole evenly to widen it slightly.
Other than this, so far...so good.
https://i.imgur.com/GTn0Xv3.jpg
I've spent some time working out where the Centre line is, and working out where the bridge goes. I've already touched the sides of the pickup cavities with sandpaper so that the pickups will fit, and then promptly taped them up for the painting stage.
I had a look at the back and quickly worked out I wasn't keen on the control cavity cover sitting proud, so I've traced out the outline of it, and worked out I'd need to rout out about 2mm of material around the cavity so that it'll sit flush.
https://i.imgur.com/u5JrVgQ.jpg
I have a router, however, I feel that it is simply far too big to be considered anything but overkill for this job. That being said, I'm waiting until I get a slightly smaller router to do the job before having a go at that one.
Plan is for this to be finished in a deep green colour, with a bit of a metallic "fleck" through the finishing coats. I'm keen to make use of the air compressor I scored for Christmas!
At this point, I think the only question I can think of is if anyone has worked with an IB-5, or an IB-4 kit and done something similar with the control cavity cover? Do you have any tips to pass onto someone before they make a terrible mistake?!
