What To When A Pickguard Doesn't Fit?

[nicealex]

I'm planning to buy a strat copy and switch out the pickguard, but I'm worried the pickguard wont match up perfectly.

In the case that it doesnt, how would I work with this? I realize some drilling may be required... but how can I do this in a way that won't mess up the finish of my guitar and will still allow me to put the other pickguard back on if need be?

Any input is appreciated.

[AlGeeEater]

I'm planning to buy a strat copy and switch out the pickguard, but I'm worried the pickguard wont match up perfectly.

In the case that it doesnt, how would I work with this?  I realize some drilling may be required... but how can I do this in a way that won't mess up the finish of my guitar and will still allow me to put the other pickguard back on if need be?

Any input is appreciated.

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If you don't want to screw the finish use brad point drill bit's as center punches and then just drill. The finish will be safe. I know if you go to a music store(one with a good guitar tech) he will take the pickgaurd, make a template of it and send it to the company that makes them. When i got mine back from the store it was an exact fit.

[GodBlessTexas]

I'm planning to buy a strat copy and switch out the pickguard, but I'm worried the pickguard wont match up perfectly.

In the case that it doesnt, how would I work with this?  I realize some drilling may be required... but how can I do this in a way that won't mess up the finish of my guitar and will still allow me to put the other pickguard back on if need be?

Any input is appreciated.

←

If you don't want to screw the finish use brad point drill bit's as center punches and then just drill. The finish will be safe. I know if you go to a music store(one with a good guitar tech) he will take the pickgaurd, make a template of it and send it to the company that makes them. When i got mine back from the store it was an exact fit.

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Edited June 27, 2005 by GodBlessTexas

[thedoctor]

Never, ever plan for failure! Build the axe, get the gaurd and see if you have a problem. It just be a piece of plastic but I realise it contributes in a large way to the look.

[AlGeeEater]

I'm planning to buy a strat copy and switch out the pickguard, but I'm worried the pickguard wont match up perfectly.

In the case that it doesnt, how would I work with this?  I realize some drilling may be required... but how can I do this in a way that won't mess up the finish of my guitar and will still allow me to put the other pickguard back on if need be?

Any input is appreciated.

←

If you don't want to screw the finish use brad point drill bit's as center punches and then just drill. The finish will be safe. I know if you go to a music store(one with a good guitar tech) he will take the pickgaurd, make a template of it and send it to the company that makes them. When i got mine back from the store it was an exact fit.

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How many screw holes? 8 or 11? Real Fenders use 11 holes. Most copies either use the exact number or less. Squier uses 8. If one of those won't work, I suggest using the existing one, if you have it, as a template and having one custom made, or buying the material yourself and making your own. All you need is a router to cut the material.

Remember the Alamo, and God Bless Texas...

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It's a strat copy. 11 screw holes. The guy made a template. Hell, he even gave it to me with the original pickgaurd! It's a perfect fit and you can't go wrong with it. You just have to find a good guitar guy...