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Post new topic Need Advice on Drilling Hole in Acoustic Guitar Body
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Author Topic:  Need Advice on Drilling Hole in Acoustic Guitar Body
Michael Pierce


From:
Madison, CT
Post  Posted 29 Jul 2010 8:27 am    
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I want to try installing an LR Baggs M1A pickup in an old acoustic guitar I own. To do the end pin jack installation, I will need to drill a 1/2" hole. Any advice from you luthiers out there on what type of drill bit to use, technique, etc.? Not an expensive guitar, but I'd like to be proud of the end product and I'd really like to try this myself rather than handing it to a guitar tech. Thanks in advance.
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Mike Neer


From:
NJ
Post  Posted 29 Jul 2010 8:46 am    
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Endpin jack reamer

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Tools/Special_tools_for:_Endpins/Endpin_Jack_Reamer.html
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Jim Peters


From:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA, R.I.P.
Post  Posted 29 Jul 2010 3:32 pm    
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Use a Forstner bit.
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Rick Campbell


From:
Sneedville, TN, USA
Post  Posted 29 Jul 2010 3:43 pm    
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Double post. Don't take any advice from me, I can't even post a message the right way. Papa Joe's got good advice. Smile

Last edited by Rick Campbell on 29 Jul 2010 8:08 pm; edited 1 time in total
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Rick Campbell


From:
Sneedville, TN, USA
Post  Posted 29 Jul 2010 3:44 pm    
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I think the endpin reamer makes a tapered hole. I think for that jack you just need a 1/2 inch drill bit. Use a twist drill bit, not one of those blade bits.It shouldn't be a big deal, just take it slow and keep the drill lined up as best you can. The Baggs should come with instructions, if not give them a call if you're not sure on something. Measure twice drill once. I've done several of those and never had any problems. Good luck.

Smile
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Richard Damron


From:
Gallatin, Tennessee, USA (deceased)
Post  Posted 29 Jul 2010 4:42 pm    
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I'll second Jim Peters' suggestion. And take it SLOWLY! Let the bit do the work.
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Papa Joe Pollick


From:
Swanton, Ohio
Post  Posted 29 Jul 2010 5:29 pm    
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I use a slightly smaller bit going carfully then finish with a round file.I get good fits every time.
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Graham


From:
Marmora, Ontario, Canada
Post  Posted 30 Jul 2010 3:11 am    
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I installed a thin line pick-up and end pin in my Martin D-35 some few years ago.

Pull the existing end pin, put a piece of masking tape over the hole and drill slowly with a 1/2" twist bit. Tape will help keep the edges from splintering.

Worked well for me.
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