First build - TL-1TH

[jugglindan]

Thanks McCreed and Bakersdozen.

Right back at the start of the build I determined that the bridge works as both top-loading or string-through. Photos on the kit page show top-loading. I decided on top-loading to keep things simple. I also decided way back forever to drill after the finish to reduce the risk of water getting into the holes and cracking the finish. At the time I was planning on wet sanding. As it turns out I didn't wet sand so could easily have drilled first. However, sticking to the plan means masking with tape and drilling carefully, which should get the hardware fitted without damaging the finish.

The finish is super hard now, so I don't have any fear of the tape itself causing damage.

[Simon Barden]

The finish is super hard now, so I don't have any fear of the tape itself causing damage.

Fate has been tempted.

When you have to re-do the finish as a result, don't forget the 600 and 1200 stages.

[jugglindan]

Fate has been tempted.

When you have to re-do the finish as a result, don't forget the 600 and 1200 stages.

Fate is only tempted when someone draws Fate's attention. Until you pointed it out my comment may have slid through unnoticed. And I didn't forget 600 and 1200. Just didn't do enough of them.

But I am happy enough with the finish that I am going to go with a lacquer finish on the next build. Finally settled on a PB-30M bass. Tortoiseshell pickguard and body colour in the vicinity of surf green. The rosewood fretboard would probably look better but I would rather not tackle another engineered rosewood board.

Are the PBG basses also 12" radius boards?

[king casey]

The rosewood fretboard would probably look better but I would rather not tackle another engineered rosewood board.

Could just stipulate as such at the order stage?
FWIW I got a Pitbull 30" rosewood bass neck some time ago.
I plugged up the tuner holes as I was contemplating making it either a baritone guitar or smaller bass tuners.


cheers, Mark.

[Simon Barden]

They are indeed.

The factory 12" radius block has some pretty heavy use.

[McCreed]

re: Rosewood fretboard
I'm pretty sure if the listing says "rosewood" it is real rosewood, not the engineered stuff. Maybe one of the guys from PBG could confirm here if they see this.

I still think your TL with the engineered timber was a fluke (mistake?) because the CITES restrictions had been lifted by the time you bought the kit, but I may be wrong. (wouldn't be first time)

[Simon Barden]

Maybe just using up older stock rather than throwing them away or going to the effort of removing the engineered wood board and fitting rosewood (or an alternative similar wood) board ? Some kits on the PBG site are still listed as having engineered boards.

[jugglindan]

OK, thanks everyone. When I go to order I will check with Adam regarding the fingerboard specifics, as I do think the rosewood boards are the best pairing for the tortoiseshell pickguards.

Speaking of Adam, a lovely new bone nut arrived in the post today. Rather than having to shim, this one is a tiny bit too thick so I will carefully sand it down to a snug fit. It doesn't appear to be bleached either, so it's a mellow sort of yellow.

[Bakersdozen]

They call it Mellow Yellow

[jugglindan]

Thanks Phrozin, that's high praise mate! I will try the 800 wet with soap, 2000g and polish on my next build.