adding an end pin jack from scratch

[alnico5]

I have a La Patrie classical with no end pin hole. I have confirmed both visually and via e-mail with La Patrie that the guitar does have an end block. I'd be interested in hearing from people who have drilled an end pin hole from scratch. It would be for an output jack on a K&K PU, not a strap button. Thanks!

[Tony Done]

I use a brad point bit:

http://www.harborfreight.com/7-piece...-set-1637.html

In the drill press, and swing the press over the floor. The guitar is held vertically, headstock resting on the floor and propped against the drill bench, with plenty of padding.

You could also drill a small pilot hole freehand, and then use an endpin reamer from Stewmac.

As someone mentioned in another thread, it is a good idea to cover the area with tape to reduce the risk of splintering.

[scottishrogue]

Originally Posted by alnico5

I'd be interested in hearing from people who have drilled an end pin hole from scratch. It would be for an output jack on a K&K PU, not a strap button. Thanks!

It requires a special bit, like the one Tony linked you to, because it's critical to "score" the edge of the hole to avoid any splintering of the wood. I use a variable speed drill (I don't own a drill press), but I'm careful to hold the drill perpendicular (90*) to the guitar. The pickup you use should have specific instructions on which size bit to use. If you plan to DIY, you should have the proper tools, and experience. A 3/8" variable speed drill, soldering gun (with a light), solder, flux, several small clamps, and a thick dropcloth (NOT made of poly) to protect your guitar from dripping flux and solder! And, an ABC fire extinguisher, and good pair of safety glasses. I use headmounted safety goggles with a magnifying lens and lights on the sides. If it's a piezo pickup, you'll also need a small twist drill for the hole you will make in the saddle slot for the wire lead, and plan on shaving the saddle to compensate for the additional saddle height. If you don't have the necessary tools, or haven't done any soldering, I would recommend you have it installed by a guitar tech, even though the job can be done by a novice.

Glen

[fazool]

Also put tape on the wood to help avoid splintering.

Does it have a front strap button or do you use the headstock attachment method?

Either way, put a strap on the front and CAREFULLY hold the strap where the endpin might go.

Next, hold the guitar like this:

a couple inches over a pillow in case you slip:

Hold the neck at the headstock in your left hand. grip the neck like playing but ABOVE the nut so you are essentially holding the guitar but it could spin in your hand.


Now....


press your right index finger like pushing an elevator button, against the endpin location.

Pick the guitar up. Squeeze tightly so it doesnt fall.

Now, loosen a little. Keep loosening your button push pressure.

The guitar will spin, probably until the sounbdboard faces down.

DOing this, you can move your finger forward and back to find the approximate center of gravity.

Imagine if you put the strap button WAY in the back, the guitar would twist while in your strap. It would be awkward and uncomfortable.

The geometric center of the depth is not necessarily the weight center.

So you dont automatically want the endpin in the visual center.

You want it more toward the front.

Maybe.

kinda

sorta

ymmv

[alnico5]

fazool, lots of good info in your post. The end pin hole is for a K&K PU jack, not a strap.