Some Small Tools to Make:
What we have decided to do in come up with a list of guitar repair tools that are possible to make by the guitar repairman him or herself. These are not difficult tools to make and they all serve a very useful purpose.
Sheet Stock Brass or Copper .025″ Thick -or-
Steel Feeler Gage
Brass or Copper Rivets
Hardwood Scraps for Handle
Hacksaw
Sanding Sticks or Stationary Belt Sander
Brace Probe:
This is a very simple tool that consists only of a thin sheet of brass or steel, secured to a handle.
How You Use It:
Use the brace probe to check every brace on the top and or bottom plates of the guitar. You just run the probe blade along the base of the brace. If it slides into our under and brace, you know that brace will need to be re-glued. Be sure to use the Brace Probe in conjunction with a work light and an inspection mirror.
How to Make It:
The blade is best made from a very thin sheet of copper or possible from a discarded feeler gauge.
Make the blade about 3/8″ wide and 3″ long. Round the top of the probe and sharpen the edges of it so it is almost knife-edge sharp.
Cut a couple of pieces of rosewood or other hardwood material for the handle that will be fastened to both sides. Drill through the sandwich of materials and secure with (2) copper rivets and some epoxy glue.
Sand the finished probe smooth and it’s ready for use.
The Finishing Touches:
I would recommend that there be no sharp edges on the probe with the exception of the blade tip. Also if you wish put a coat of clear lacquer or urethane on the wood handle, just to spruce it up a bit.
Do You Have A Favorite Tool You Would Like To Share?
If you do please post it here and let everyone share in your experience. This way we can all save time or do a better job with just a little bit more knowledge and aid from a great little tool.
Tags: brace probe tool, guitar repair, guitar repair tools, how to repair a guitar, luthier tools
