Like some other brave souls on this Forum have previously admitted (Ozzie, you’re a legend) Blackdog/boredom has set in again, so its time for a new build.
WARNING: My build diaries are usually painfully long, detailed and a warts and all journal of each build. Hopefully to encourage others that, while not advisable, it is ok to make mistakes. As per usual I will be using limited ability and hand tools only.
I wanted something different but as I don’t have the ability to think too much outside the box, designing my own shape is not an option so I thought I would combine two of my favourite guitars. The Les Paul Jr. and the Telecaster. So this could have been a Teleson or a Lescaster. I thought Lescaster sounded better.
I’ve always yearned for a 24 fret guitar, so without further thought, the journey started with a standard Pitbull 24 fret Gibson neck.
Mistake #1. A 24 fret neck does not alter the scale length. Duh! It just means that the available space between the bridge and the end of the neck has been reduced so the pickups have to be closer together. How this will compromise optimal pickup spacing? Only time will tell.
First job shape the headstock. I avoid using propriety shaped headstocks so have decided on something simple. So out with the trusty/rusty fret saw.
Then I used my DIY notched straight edge and adjusted the truss rod.
I make sure the all frets are seated properly, tape off the neck, and level the frets using a 12” radius block.
After levelling the frets I re-crown them with a fret file.
I then like to double check everything with a fret rocker.
Last job is to polish the frets. I usually start with 400 grit paper then move onto 000, then 0000 steel wool.
Next job will be to cut out the body shape. With the problems I had with #19 I will proceed with caution.
Cheers guys
rob
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Originally Posted by robin
