Straplock nightmare :(

[vertigoPT]

Just tried to install some straplocks on my LP Studio right now. I realized that the screw should be shorter than the one provided, which is about the same length as the one on my Studio, because the original one wasn't all the way in. Still I thought it was a good idea to give it a try. Right now I have a screw half the way in my LP and I can't take it out anymore. :( I'll have to take the guitar to the store now. I'm going to need help on that one before I make matters worse!

[Col F]

If you tried to drive a screw that is too long for the pre-drilled hole, and there is enough of the screw/head still accessible, try using a pair of Vice Grip Pliers (locking pliers, not regular pliers) to tightly grip the part of the screw that is still protruding, and slowly and carefully unscrew it from the guitar.

[vertigoPT]

I can't see much of the screw since it's inside the straplock piece that is screwed to the guitar body. What I have is a loose strap button. Maybe if I try to saw the button off I can access the screw and use the plier... Thanks for the tip.

[cajunman831]

i just installed dunlop straplocks on both my custom and std.Had to drill a lil bit due to std screws being smaller then dunlops.real good tools.if

you try to install std screws you might strip the heads.just predrill the screw sizes.all i do is match them with my drill bit set size.

[vertigoPT]

Wouldn't it be an option to use smaller screws? I'm not confortable with the ideia of drilling my (chambered) Studio... Well that's if I can remove the screw that's traped in there right now!

[Murph]

Yea, I'd be careful.

 

If you drill into the chamber, you'll let the air out.

 

Bad mojo........

 

Best of luck.

 

Murph.

[surfpup]

I had to drill both of my LPs for the Dunlops too. Nothing to fear. You could use a smaller screw, but I like security of the longer screw biting into fresh wood anyway.

[ninety1vee]

a power drill is either ur best friend, or worst enemy.

just stay calm

[djroge1]

I had to drill both of my LPs for the Dunlops too. Nothing to fear. You could use a smaller screw' date=' but I like security of the longer screw biting into fresh wood anyway. [/quote']

 

+1

[Col F]

There are two "issues" with using different (other than original Gibson) screws..

1. Screw size (cross section / width / thickness)... If you use a "larger" screw you can never replace the original Gibson strap buttons and screws

2. Screw length ... by drilling the hole a little bit deeper (using a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw size, you have done no harm and can always replace the original screws and buttons (and your new, longer screws will in fact be "biting" more wood - if that is even necessary).

 

First get the "trapped" screw out. If you dont have enough exposed to grip with Vice Grip Pliers (which also have "needle nose" versions, you may have to carefully drill off the head of that screw, in order to "release" the trapped strap button. To accomplish that, you need to use a slightly larger "width" drill bit to essentially "grind away" the head of the screw (which I am presuming you "shredded" when trying to extract it). Another excellent alternative (if you want to buy the tools) is to use a "Screw Extractor Bit", which typically comes in sets of a few sizes, and which used in the drill, running in reverse, actually "bites" into the mutiliated screw head and backs it out. In the US, Sears, auto parts stores, wood working supply stores, etc. all typically stock Screw Extractors; and they work very well.

 

Good luck.

[stymye]

a little candle rubbed on the screw beforehand will also make a world of difference, goes in >alot< easier yet it will be there to stay.

[retrosurfer1959]

Good luck and the candle wax works so does a bar of soap to lube the threads a bit when you start the screw into the hole.