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Using a hinge for a tailpiece?

Hey everyone,

I'm sorting out my build here and I'm struggling with what I want to do for the tailpiece. I was planning on cutting some sheet Al. to create my own (and still may) but have a some chrome trunk hinges here at may work also if I go 3-string.

The three existing screw holes are almost (emphasis on almost) spread to accommodate a 1/2" string spacing but not quite there. That being the case, the two outer strings would have to fan outward some. I could use some coarse threaded rod in my bridge to keep the strings where I want them but not sure if they will stay in the threads because of the angle or want to jump out.

Also, seeing as how it's a hinge with a moving hinge point, will it create enough downward pressure on the strings before the bridge?? It doesn't seem like it would, but I have seen so many people use hinges for tailpieces it must work. Maybe I'm just over thinking it some.

Thanks,

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Permalink Reply by ron carlson on July 31, 2012 at 2:19am

I just noticed the tarp grommets used for vol. and tone trim rings. Very clever also!

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Permalink Reply by David L. on July 29, 2012 at 11:39am

Snake hinges work well

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Permalink Reply by ron carlson on July 31, 2012 at 2:15am

I like those also. Looks like they would provide great anchoring at the rear of the box and a cool look also.

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Permalink Reply by Tom on July 31, 2012 at 9:08am

just goes to show, some times I look, but just dont see !!. Very Cool Idea there !!!!

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Permalink Reply by Jason on August 13, 2012 at 2:22am

One thing: I found that sometimes after dremel-ing a hole where string would run through, the sharp edges of the hole would slice the strings and snap them. You will want to soften your edges. A trick I learned from a guitar player friend is to rub the lead of a #2 pencil in the hole. The pencil isn't really lead anymore, it's graphite which acts as a lubricant and can help keep the strings from wearing out where they rub. This works well on the edges of ferules as well.