Who Can Give Me A Bass Body Thickness/neck Width?

[Roadhouse Blues]

My uncle somehow found this blank body for a guitar, but I was wondering if anyone could give me the measurements of the standard 4 string bass's neck width, and the standard body thickness. One part was pre-cut for the bass's neck to fit into (although it was just a basic shape cut out) and I was wondering if I'd have to cut it off because it's too small. It's a fairly thick blank. I'm not starting the project now, but it'd be great if I could again, have the neck width around where it meets the body, and the body's thickness.

-Matt

[rhoads56]

no-one can give you any "standard" sizes. Whats standard?? You tell us what size you need, and then we will say "yeah".

[Roadhouse Blues]

OK, is 2.5" wide enough for the base of the neck? and also, is almost 2" enough on the thickness for a bass? I guess that was a kind of general question. I'm guessing approximately measurements of a fender p-bass or jazz bass. Just tell me what you think please.

-Matt

[j. pierce]

I'd determine the measurements you want by making a full scale drawing of the instrument. It's the best way to make sure everything works out right. (You don't need the entire outline of the body really, just the string path.) Find out what the measurements are of the bridge you want to use. Determine your scale length. I like the feel of a 34" scale length. Space out the bridge and nut that far on your drawing.

And then figure out a string spacing/nut width at the other end that feels comfortable to you. (If you know a production model instrument that feels comfortable to you, you can usually find measurements at their website)

Draw the string lines from the nut to the bridge, (account for extra space on either side of the strings for the fretboard, so the strings don't fall off, of course) Figure out what fret you want the neck to join the body, and these string lines and fretboard edge lines on your drawing should tell you how wide you want the neck and neck pocket to be at the end.

If you want to use a pre-made neck, I think it's really best to wait until you have parts in your hand, but I believe you should be able to find all the measurement info you need at Warmoth or Stew Mac.

2 inches is more than thick enough for a bass body, probably a little thicker than you need. (it'll be heavy) Warmoth lists their bodies as being 1 3/4" thick. The one I just made is closer to 1 1/2".

edit: Warmoth also lists their bass necks as having a "Standard 2-1/2" wide vintage fender heel specs" So you're probably fine. But again, plan around your scale length and choice of bridge.

Edited September 28, 2005 by j. pierce

[Roadhouse Blues]

2 inches is more than thick enough for a bass body, probably a little thicker than you need.  (it'll be heavy) Warmoth lists their bodies as being 1 3/4" thick.  The one I just made is closer to 1 1/2".

edit: Warmoth also lists their bass necks as having a "Standard 2-1/2" wide vintage fender heel specs"  So you're probably fine.  But again, plan around your scale length and choice of bridge.

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Thanks. That's all I needed. I understand the building, I just wanted a quick approximate answer. I'm in the middle of a guitar project, and I just wanted to ask this quick newbie kinda question, because I got this free body for a future project. Thanks

-Matt

[Mattia]

While you can get planed-to-thickness stock and not worry, ALWAYS have at the very LEAST 1/2" of leeway around the outside edges, more is better, so you can avoid any small flaws you'd rather not use.