The Last Bass Outpost

Gear Discussion Forums => Bill's Shop: Projects, Mods & Repairs => Topic started by: Blazer on July 16, 2008, 02:07:51 PM

Title: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 16, 2008, 02:07:51 PM
Okay then I have everything ready for a Fenderbird build:

I bought a couple of planks of Honduran mahogany.

I made a routing template.
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0589.jpg)

And I got myself a cheap bass carcas to use as a donor vehicle and I got some Peavey heavy duty tuners for a very low price.
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Bas1.jpg)
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Bas3.jpg)

So what do you guys say, should I Flip the template or do an Entwistle?
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on July 16, 2008, 06:48:53 PM
I'm a sucker for NR bodies.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Nocturnal on July 16, 2008, 08:58:39 PM
I might be tempted to flip it over, just to be a little different. To me it's a win/win situation whichever style you decide to use.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: godofthunder on July 17, 2008, 02:47:55 AM
 A true NR isn't just a flipped over Thnderbird body shape . It is completly different. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v102/godofthunder59/001.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on July 17, 2008, 04:57:33 AM
Greco did some flipped reverse bodies.


I saw this recently that I thought was cool

A Espirt 4 bass

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/Esprit-4-Bass.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/WEIRDBIRD.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 17, 2008, 06:49:17 AM
A true NR isn't just a flipped over Thnderbird body shape . It is completly different. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v102/godofthunder59/001.jpg)

I know that. But I saw pictures of Custom Basses which were flipped reverse thunderbirds and they looked cool.

(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g87/dtkdemongene/FernandesNS1.jpg)

(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g87/dtkdemongene/FernandesNS3.jpg)
This is a Fernades copy of the Spector Nikki Sixx model.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on July 17, 2008, 07:31:47 AM
Hmm.. I like the normal Gibson shapes better. Leave it as it is. And if you don't like it, I'll buy it!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 17, 2008, 07:46:17 AM
Hmm.. I like the normal Gibson shapes better. Leave it as it is. And if you don't like it, I'll buy it!

To say it in our native language:

Daar hou ik je aan.  8)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on July 17, 2008, 07:55:24 AM
And to answer back in our language:

Mits ie er een beetje klassiek uit ziet! Ik ben meer van de vintage. Jouw Zelfbouw-Rick is zeer cool, maar mij iets te modern qua pick ups en hardware.
Ik heb nog ergens een 70s Japanse Jazz neck met zwarte blokken en daar wil ik een keer een Explorer of Thunderbird body aan vast. Liefst mahoney en ik heb nog een Darkstar liggen. Misschien moeten we eens praten.

To translate the above in English: 'deal.'

;)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 17, 2008, 10:00:41 AM
I'm planning to fit Dimarzio Alchemy pickups. Although I haven't decided to fit one or two.

(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b45/steviecsg/Image002.jpg)
This Aria has an Alchemy fitted.

As for hardware, just a chome Fender style bridge will do nicely thank you very much.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on July 17, 2008, 11:19:27 AM
What about one (in the middle) or two mudbuckers?
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 17, 2008, 02:22:55 PM
What about one (in the middle) or two mudbuckers?

That's the thing I don't HAVE mudbuckers lying around. If you do so, send them over and I'll put them in.  :P
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on July 18, 2008, 03:02:58 AM
You could order some Artec's?

I only have an Epiphone mudbucker, but I guess you won't want that.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 20, 2008, 04:03:17 PM
Hey Chris I saw in your EB0 Junior thread that you do have some interresting pickups lying around. Would it be possible that I could rout it for that chrome cover Thunderbird pickup?
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 20, 2008, 06:30:06 PM
A little update, I have been talking with somebody who can professionally paint the body for me. And I was planning to have him paint the thing baby blue. It'll look really classy with the off white pickguard I'm gonna make.

(http://www.gpguitars.com/images/Gibsonblue.jpg)
This is the shade of blue I'm talking about, this firebird VII also shows the look I'll be going for.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on July 21, 2008, 01:52:38 AM
I love that colour!!

Blazer,

I have two NOS Thunderbird pick up covers and rings. They were on eBay a whole ago and a lot us us bought some. It are only covers and not pick ups. i don't know what to with them yet. Replace the busted ones on my T-Bird, using them for a future Explorerbird, using one on the BaCH-bird and one on the Jr... So I'll come back to it.

At the moment I have:
- A Darkstar (P-string spacing)
- A chrome Fender Tele humbucker (which also is an option for the BaCH)
- A chrome/black Duesenberg
- A reisse DeArmond Goldtone bridge humbucker
- two chrome T-bird covers
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Freuds_Cat on July 21, 2008, 10:38:10 PM
I love the idea of playing about with different shapes, colours and hardware but keeping a conection to the original Gibson concept. I can even come at the whole FenderBird thing. But for whatever reason it always makes me cringe to see Fender style pups on a Gibson style body.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on July 22, 2008, 04:26:02 AM
I always said the same thing about the irony If you or I do that, but when a iconic player does it, it's considered genius!

If you or I do it, we have ruined a bass.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Freuds_Cat on July 22, 2008, 08:47:25 PM
Yep are right there. At least the Ox did it with new bought bodies and necks (as far as I am aware). Not like it was vintage instruments being bastardised.  In the same light I guess its probably still OK for us to buy Warmoth or similar bits and make Frankenbasses.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: godofthunder on July 23, 2008, 04:18:53 AM
Yep are right there. At least the Ox did it with new bought bodies and necks (as far as I am aware). Not like it was vintage instruments being bastardised.  In the same light I guess its probably still OK for us to buy Warmoth or similar bits and make Frankenbasses.
  Except all those Thunderbirds he relived of pickups and hardware.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 23, 2008, 11:15:52 AM
  Except all those Thunderbirds he relived of pickups and hardware.

From what I learned, He bought all those parts from Gibson after they discontinued the thunderbird and had to get rid of all the stuff they had lying around, so there were no vintage basses harmed.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on July 23, 2008, 01:43:29 PM
Do you have any proof for that, Blazer? I'm always wondering and I thought the same, without any evidence.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Freuds_Cat on July 23, 2008, 07:05:46 PM
From what I learned, He bought all those parts from Gibson after they discontinued the thunderbird and had to get rid of all the stuff they had lying around, so there were no vintage basses harmed.

That was my reading as well although unfortunately I can no longer remember the source. Too long ago.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 24, 2008, 02:07:41 AM
From Whotabs.

From November 1975, Guitar Player interview

    Once I realized the Thunderbird was the bass I was going to be playing for a few years, I panicked because they stopped making them. I went to Manny’s [156 West 48th St., New York, NY 10036], and told them to buy up the whole stock, so consequently I got ten two-pickup Thunderbirds. Some of them had harmonic, microphonic pickups, so I couldn’t use them, and with the rest, I just couldn’t get the action as low as I wanted. So I used the pickups and hardware and bought some blonde Fender Precision necks and had some old style Thunderbird bodies built for the Fender necks to fit, and I’ve been using them on stage more than the Thunderbirds. I use them for recording as well. Blonde Precision necks are my favorites; those and Rickenbackers. Thunderbird necks tend to be too thin down at the bottom. I get my fingers all tangled up when I go to the first fret.


I guess I was wrong here...
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: godofthunder on July 24, 2008, 05:16:10 AM
 Yep thats where I read it, I still have that issue tucked away.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Freuds_Cat on July 24, 2008, 03:55:39 PM
Yep thats the article.  Doesnt't say a lot for Gibsons QC that out of 10 basses he still makes the comment :

"Some of them had harmonic, microphonic pickups, so I couldn’t use them, and with the rest, I just couldn’t get the action as low as I wanted."
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on July 29, 2008, 03:17:12 PM
Today I bought myself a far more serious neck to use in the build.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0635.jpg)

Allparts, baby.

I also glued the mahogany pieces together and as soon as the glue has set I'll begin work on the body.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Freuds_Cat on July 29, 2008, 07:25:09 PM
How many shillings was that neck Blazer?
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on July 29, 2008, 08:37:42 PM
Wow, that neck's a beauty.   Nice choice!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on July 30, 2008, 01:45:05 AM
Tres cool!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: godofthunder on July 30, 2008, 04:13:58 AM
 Nice neck ! I like allparts stuff alot.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 04, 2008, 04:04:59 PM
I finally got my grubby hands on a pickup that won't scare off the purists. It's a rather fat humbucker of an old Ibanez Roadstar bass.

(http://www.ibanezregister.com/images/BASSES/images-rb/rb820/rb820ss-83.jpg)
One of THESE to be precise.

Tomorrow I'll start work on the body. I'll photograph the whole thing so there's eye candy on the way.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 05, 2008, 12:24:03 AM
Cool!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Fred Hammon on August 05, 2008, 04:19:15 AM
How about a lefty Star Bird:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v371/Hammon/Dark%20Star%20Basses/BlueBird1.jpg)

One of two DS leftys made by Frank Stavem
Google him.

Fred
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 05, 2008, 04:34:27 AM
That's gorgeous!!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on August 05, 2008, 09:06:26 AM
This is very cool!!!!  I've even been thinking of going solid with my Maple NR.  I've got some mods I want to make that will require refinishing it, and that blue is very sharp!!

How about a lefty Star Bird:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v371/Hammon/Dark%20Star%20Basses/BlueBird1.jpg)

One of two DS leftys made by Frank Stavem
Google him.

Fred
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on August 05, 2008, 09:07:54 AM
This is very cool!!!!  I've even been thinking of going solid with my Maple NR.  I've got some mods I want to make that will require refinishing it, and that blue is very sharp!!



Wow Fred that is stunning!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 05, 2008, 12:17:20 PM
Well you guys I did a LOT of work and made pictures of the whole process and I guess it's final now, it will be a reverse.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0638.jpg)
First up here's the pieces of the glued mahogany before I took the clamps off

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0639.jpg)
And here's the mahogany with the template on top, as you can see, the center block is from a different kind of mahogany as the mahogany I used for the sides, it makes that the center has a darker shade. Also visible in this picture is the fact that one of the pieces had shifted during the glueing process, this caused a little problem which I solved later.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0636.jpg)
Here's the Ibanez Pickup I mentioned earlier, it's a "Super P" pickup which as the name implies...

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0637.jpg)
...is a P-bass pickup underneath a large cover. The advantage of using such a pickup is that I don't have to do much modification to the body if I want to install, say... a Darkstar or a Musicman humbucker.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0640.jpg)
Here I am routing the neck pocket, as you can see I used a Jazz bass template to do this, why make new templates when I can get the job done with the existing ones? Also visible on this picture is the fact that the center block is slightly off-center but given the fact that I want to give this bass a solid color it doesn't really matter

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0643.jpg)
A good snug fit, this neck won't be going anywhere. Trustworthy templates are a blessing.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0642.jpg)
And the thing in full.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0645.jpg)
After I routed the pickup cavity, again, I didn't need to make new templates just for this pickup, I used an existing one and glued little blocks to the sides to make it fit.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0646.jpg)
Here's the little mishap of one of the pieces shifting during the glueing process I mentioned earlier. I sawed it out a little more in order to glue a piece of wood in.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0648.jpg)
The white stuff you see at the edges is the ultra strong and fast drying epoxy glue I use, it's dependable stuff and I don't know what I'd do without it.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0649.jpg)
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0650.jpg)
And here's the thing in full on the bonnet of my car.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0652.jpg)
But now it seems that I need to lengthen the neck cavity because the bridge is rather close to the pickup. On the other hand, given the sound of that big Ibanez pickup that might be a good thing.

So what do you guys think?



Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on August 05, 2008, 12:26:19 PM
You need to move the neck pocket in because the neck will be a long reach and as is will be even more a neck diver. I remember  a guy at the pit building one that way and he did not like the position, he ended up selling it..

As you are probably already aware of, If you look at a Tbird the neck is set far in the body.


You would need to move the bridge as well.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/91_white_.jpg)

Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on August 05, 2008, 12:28:43 PM
That is why I like my Fenderbird style so much because of the lower horn cutaway for upper fret access. Although I dont think it looks as nice as the Orange & black ones.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/Fendbent.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 05, 2008, 01:09:13 PM
Yeah I'll definately have to re-rout the neck cavity, no big deal though.  :mrgreen:
Although I'm not sure of deeping the lower bout like that Black entwiste Fenderbird you posted.
(http://www.thewho.net/whotabs/images/bass/fbird/fbird-paxmancas_rsg.jpg)

Anyway, I was thinking of maybe giving it top binding just to add a hint of class. Since I haven't done work on contouring the body yet, that option is still open.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on August 05, 2008, 02:30:09 PM
Yep, when I did my bolt-on neck TB, I used a standard Fender neck pocket and the first fret was quite a reach!  If I did it again, I would drop it down toward the bridge as you folks are mentioning.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 06, 2008, 09:04:47 AM
Great Blazer!!!! Love it! I wish I had your skills!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on August 06, 2008, 09:08:42 AM
Yep, when I did my bolt-on neck TB, I used a standard Fender neck pocket and the first fret was quite a reach!  If I did it again, I would drop it down toward the bridge as you folks are mentioning.


Unless you drive an Alfa and already have gorilla arms!

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/misc/ape.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 06, 2008, 09:38:13 AM
BTW: I always love one pick up birds. Can't wait to see the finished blazerbird.

I used to have a very bad steering Seat car (that's a Spanish Volkswagen..) once..
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 06, 2008, 01:05:22 PM
BTW: I always love one pick up birds. Can't wait to see the finished blazerbird.

I used to have a very bad steering Seat car (that's a Spanish Volkswagen..) once..

Oh, I am so happy with my Opel Astra, such a big improvement over the Seat Ibiza I had before.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 06, 2008, 01:37:31 PM
I had an Ibiza too:(
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on August 06, 2008, 01:41:06 PM
I just saw an Opal GT at a car show. That was such a cool little car, a pint size Corvette kind of.


My brother owned an Opel Manta once. That was also cool, but it was a rust bucket.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 06, 2008, 11:51:50 PM
Opel GT are really like little Corvettes. The Coca-Cola bottle shape, four red taillights, ...

I love the way the headlamps pop up! They rotate on an axl.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on August 07, 2008, 11:14:43 AM
When I was 16, the Opel GT was my dream car after a Mustang.  Of course, I ended up with a Maverick, but what the hell!  At least it was a 3 speed and that in-line 6 cylinder engine was built like a tank!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 10, 2008, 07:34:47 PM
Little update, since I loved the look of this NR Fenderbird so much I decided to ditch the baby blue and have it finished in classy black.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/blackbird.jpg)

Why f*** with something that looks good?

Anyway instead of a normal Thunderbird logo I was gonna do my own logo of a crosseyed skull under the pickguard. You read it right: UNDER the pickguard because I'll be making the pickguard from clear perspex which I'll airbrush the logo on the backside before spraying it white. That way I'll be able to put a custom logo on without the chance of it wearing away.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Freuds_Cat on August 10, 2008, 10:35:10 PM
Man! how good does that look?
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: gearHed289 on August 11, 2008, 12:00:15 PM
Little update, since I loved the look of this NR Fenderbird so much I decided to ditch the baby blue and have it finished in classy black.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/blackbird.jpg)

That black looks great! Baby blue's not so great anyway. Just ask Barlessdog.  ;)

(http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/3007/fullfrontnh8.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on August 11, 2008, 03:23:04 PM
In my own little mind, I think NRs looks great in vintage white, red and black.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: SKATE RAT on August 11, 2008, 06:52:49 PM
i think that baby blue one looks great.i know that bass has changed hands because it had something wrong.what was the problem?.i saw a live pic somewhere around here i just cant remember where.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Dave W on August 11, 2008, 07:28:26 PM
i think that baby blue one looks great.i know that bass has changed hands because it had something wrong.what was the problem?.i saw a live pic somewhere around here i just cant remember where.

http://bassoutpost.com/index.php?topic=838.0
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Rikkimax on August 11, 2008, 07:44:14 PM
Blazer,
That is going to be an excellent bass!  Please tell me:  How did you get so many photos into your post?  I have been limited regarding the number of photos and file size of what I have been able to insert.  Thanks, Rikkimax
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Dave W on August 11, 2008, 09:43:45 PM
Blazer,
That is going to be an excellent bass!  Please tell me:  How did you get so many photos into your post?  I have been limited regarding the number of photos and file size of what I have been able to insert.  Thanks, Rikkimax

You're uploading directly from your computer to our server. We have to limit the size and number of direct uploads because we have a finite amount of storage space.

Blazer and most other members here host their photos externally on Photobucket. Sign up for a free (or premium) account there, upload your pics from your computer to your Photobucket account, then just copy the IMG code below each photo and paste it into your post here.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 12, 2008, 04:33:04 AM
Yeah, use Photobucket, Flickr, Webshots and all those kind of free sites. You can almost upload unlimited pics there... One point: If you delete a pic there, it dissapears here too....

If you want to post a pic from the web: Just post it's url between these: [ IMG ] and  [ /IMG ]

So put the URL between the two and de;lete the spaces between bracket and IMG. I had to do the extra spaces, otherwise it didn;t work....
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Barklessdog on August 12, 2008, 05:10:09 AM
i think that baby blue one looks great.i know that bass has changed hands because it had something wrong.what was the problem?.i saw a live pic somewhere around here i just cant remember where.

Nothing wrong with the color at all, It's just I asked for Lake Placid/ Pelham Blue and got that instead!!!!

A rude surprise along with many other things wrong.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 12, 2008, 08:43:22 AM
Well you guys I did a lot of work today and here's the pictures to prove it.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0741.jpg)
Here's the body after I re-routed the neck pocket so it lies deeper into the body.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0742.jpg)
Compare this picture to the earlier one, the bridge is now sitting in the position it should be.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0743.jpg)
And this is after routing the electronics compartiment, I always drill the holes where the pots and output will be in advance so I won't break the thin layer of wood by drilling them afterwards. That has happened to me once before and it SUCKS!

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0744.jpg)
And here's the body after rounding off the edges.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0746.jpg)
The neckplate in place and the neck being bolted on for the first time. It's a snug fit.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0747.jpg)
With the pickup and Bridge in place.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0748.jpg)
And because of the nice sunny weather I took a picture on the bonnet of my car again.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0750.jpg)
And here's the bass at home with the Gibson "Skirt" knobs I intend to use on the bass. Next on the menu is for me to drop the body off at the place where I'll have it finished in black and in the meantime I'll start working on the pickguard.

as always I'll keep you guys imformed.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 12, 2008, 10:00:16 AM
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/slagplaat1.jpg)
Here's the body with the perspex I used for the pickguard, All I now need to do is paint it.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/slagplaat2.jpg)
And here's the pickguard during the painting.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/slagplaat3.jpg)
and here's how it looks on the body

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/slagplaat4.jpg)
and once more.

Can't wait to see it in black...
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 12, 2008, 10:18:46 AM
You sure did a lot! Nice!

Some comments:

- Nice neck
- Great tip about drilling the potholes before
- I like the way you mount the knobs in the line of the lower horn and like exactly the other way around than a Jazz. An original choice!

And one negative comment;)

- To my taste the pickguard is a bit too oversized. Try a normal Rev-T-Bird guard too and decide later!


But it's a great job!
 
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on August 12, 2008, 11:43:27 AM
Wow, looking good!  I'e never seen the painted pickguard method before.  I might have to try that sometime.  I do agree that it looks a bit large when on the body, but if you like it that way, that's all that matters.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 12, 2008, 02:01:25 PM
I think you guys are right, the pickguard is too large, I'll trim it down.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Rikkimax on August 12, 2008, 06:48:42 PM
You're uploading directly from your computer to our server. We have to limit the size and number of direct uploads because we have a finite amount of storage space.

Blazer and most other members here host their photos externally on Photobucket. Sign up for a free (or premium) account there, upload your pics from your computer to your Photobucket account, then just copy the IMG code below each photo and paste it into your post here.

Thanks.  I got it now.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 18, 2008, 10:53:08 AM
And a little update, while the body is being finished I decided to give the pickup a little test run and put it in my specially made test guitar.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0760.jpg)
I know, it looks like crap but for testing pickups it works a charm, the pots are also the pots I'm gonna put in the bass after the painting is done. The pickup works flawlessly and the electronics also sound really good.

I also decided to go without the pickguard, I like the sleek look of the bass without the pickguard.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 18, 2008, 11:58:32 PM
Cool. Leo Fender used a square slab of wood as a pick up tester, so yours is already better;)

It'll be nice without the guard!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on August 20, 2008, 10:36:48 AM
Well you guys, I have been to the guy who will finish the bass for me and I took some pictures of the bass with the first couple of layers of clear coat.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0766.jpg)

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0762.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on August 21, 2008, 01:02:30 AM
Nice!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on August 21, 2008, 06:19:32 AM
Beauty, Dude!!!  :o
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: shadowcastaz on August 21, 2008, 06:25:13 AM
Nice!! A shame to paint it black though.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on September 02, 2008, 05:44:06 PM
Well you guys I got word today that the finishing of the body in black is done, I'll retrieve the body later this week and show you guys the result.

I am really looking forwards to assembling this one.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Nocturnal on September 02, 2008, 09:25:26 PM
If this isn't a trade secret, what size router bit did you use on the edges of the body? I like how that looks on yours. Can't wait to see this one finished!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on September 04, 2008, 10:56:06 AM
Well you guys today I got the body back and it's a never out-of-style Steinway black.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0776.jpg)

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0775.jpg)
With the pickguard and with an artist impression of how it will look with a cut down version of that pickguard.
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0775-2.jpg)

But I guess I'll go without the pickguard all together, just a simple and classy black bass.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: gearHed289 on September 04, 2008, 01:58:07 PM
Nice. Looks like a Geddy Lee Fenderbird. "Fly by night away...."

OK, I'll stop....
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: sniper on September 04, 2008, 02:27:14 PM
looks good with the PG.   prolly look good w/o it too. nice work.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: godofthunder on September 04, 2008, 04:57:04 PM
Looks really cool, bet it will sound great !
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: ramone57 on September 05, 2008, 04:06:32 AM
the paint looks great, blazer.  I wouldn't put a guard on it either.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on September 05, 2008, 08:01:35 AM
No pickguard or an even smaller one tha the artist impression.

But:  A great job!
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on September 05, 2008, 09:34:32 AM
I love the look of that paint job!  No pick guard would be a good too!  I'm fond of that look....................

(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y16/drbassman/60s%20Repro%20NR%20TB/100_1288.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: gearHed289 on September 05, 2008, 02:50:41 PM
Wow! Whose is that? Haven't seen it before. I'm usually not a fan of natural blond finishes (just natural blonds...), but that looks nice. What kind of wood is that?
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on September 05, 2008, 04:32:46 PM
Wow! Whose is that? Haven't seen it before. I'm usually not a fan of natural blond finishes (just natural blonds...), but that looks nice. What kind of wood is that?

That's my all maple 60's NR reproduction.  I don't want to hijack this thread though.  I'd you'd like to see more of it, I'll start another thread with more pics.

Just making my case for no pickguard!   :)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: poomwah on September 06, 2008, 12:11:49 PM
Greco did some flipped reverse bodies.


I saw this recently that I thought was cool

A Espirt 4 bass

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/Esprit-4-Bass.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Fenderbird/WEIRDBIRD.jpg)


wow, reversed or not, I think what really looks great on those is the angled "ridges"
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: shadowcastaz on September 06, 2008, 02:26:40 PM
It came out awesome! Id vote for guardless.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on September 07, 2008, 04:32:06 PM
Hey, you don't need no stinking pick guard!   8)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on September 07, 2008, 05:12:33 PM
And that's the way I finished it, without the guard.

When I took it to a Slavantas rehearsal, our bassplayer Adrian remarked that it looked "Really Motley" sleek, like one of Nikki Sixx' custom spector basses.

But when putting the bass together I discovered a little f*** up...

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0782.jpg)
I screwed up the pickup allignment with the position of the bridge and neck. And that means that I have to re-rout the pickup cavity or fit a smaller sized pickup. It means extra work and I made this bass to be sold and I can't put a bass with such a screw up for sale, It'll damage my name as a builder.

The upside is that it plays like a dream and it sounds like a grand piano, it really has that T-bird power happening with that big honking pickup and all the strings have even output besides not alligning properly with the pole pieces.
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/100_0780.jpg)

So Chris P if you're still into buying it from me, I can make you a good price because of my screw up, or you can wait until I rectify that mistake and buy it on the original asking price.
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Chris P. on September 09, 2008, 12:29:40 AM
Blazer, I like your bass, but at the moment I just don't have the money:(
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Blazer on November 29, 2008, 05:47:37 PM
Well you guys it took a while but I finally can call the build of my Fenderbird finished.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0875.jpg)
The pickup sits in the right spot and I actually had to give the pickup a backcover 'cause if you can recall...

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0637.jpg)
...it was open on the back, making it nearly impossible to put foam underneath in order to make it height adjustable.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0877.jpg)
So now the bass is fully playable and has cool growling sound due to it's mahogany body, P-bass type pickup and Maple neck.

And as you can tell by this picture it's also a fingerprint magnet.
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e22/guitarman91/Fenderbird%20bouw/100_0876.jpg)

And I'm putting it up for sale as well, anyone who's interested please feel free to contact me.

Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: Bass VI on November 30, 2008, 02:29:54 AM
Looks Great!

Don't feel bad about the p/u route, both of these were supposed to be righthanded :-[!!!!!

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b65/bassVI/G3Ripper013.jpg)
Title: Re: Fenderbird build, reverse or non-reverse?
Post by: drbassman on November 30, 2008, 06:06:33 PM
That Fenderbird turned out nice.  as for the pick guard mistake, been there.... done that!