Strap locks--Installation instructions please

[Ted]

Hello,

Just asking for the best way to put strap locks on. Is there anything special then just switching the screws?

Thanks, Ted

[cmatthes]

Depending on the brand, you may need to drill a slightly deeper hole, but the Dunlop set seems to go on most pretty well, and those use a thicker diameter screw than the Schallers.

Whatever you do, DO NOT try to put Dunlops on a Dan Armstrong Plexi!!

[Ted]

Depending on the brand, you may need to drill a slightly deeper hole, but the Dunlop set seems to go on most pretty well, and those use a thicker diameter screw than the Schallers.

Whatever you do, DO NOT try to put Dunlops on a Dan Armstrong Plexi!!

Thanks,

I am using Dunlop. The next guitars I'm installing them on my; 1)Washburn Pilsen Idol, 2)Fender MIM Strat & Tele.

Do you think I need to to drill a deeper hole? If so, what type of drill bit would you recommend?

[backinit]

I put dunlops on one guitar and actually had to plug the holes with a hardwood dowel and redrill. I will say this although unrelated, if you go into a hardware store to buy new screws, try every screw in both of the pins because the tolerances are not the greatest on the screw head diameter.

[veatch]

Compare the screw length and width to the screw that you are taking out. That will give you an idea if you have to widen the pilot hole or drill deeper.

Generally, i try to re-use the old screws if possible. (many times it's not possible...) That makes it a *lot* easier. (not that this is a hard operation... )

Finally, use bees wax or a simple bar of soap to lubricate the screw before trying to force it in. If it starts to get hard to turn, back it off a turn, and start back in. Don't force it.

[Devnor]

IMO 7/64" works best for the Dunlop screw.

[Ted]

Thanks for the help guys.

Ted

[unfun75]

Yep, don't force. Trust me, I know. I have some "permanently" installed Dunlops in a beater guitar.

[tbonesullivan]

it all depends on what the original strap screw is like, and how deep the hole is. The screws that dunlop strap locks use are the same diameter as the screws that their standard buttons use, though a bit longer. check the depth of the hole with a tooth pick, and if it's only like 1cm or less, I'd just say screw it if. If it's longer, drill the pilot hole deeper, though always be careful on the "horn" of a double cut, or if it's on the neck joint. I've got dunlops on most of my guitars, and schallers on a few others. both have their merits.