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end block dimensions
http://w-ww.luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10101&t=53580
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Author:  phavriluk [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 12:17 am ]
Post subject:  end block dimensions

I've noticed on various plans (never took apart an existing guitar to check) that the end blocks are big hunks of wood. So why? Back before electric lights, guitars were made with a friction-fit tapered end pin, but today we can use metal screws that cancel the need for a deep hunk of wood to accept and retain the end pin.

Seems to me that a quarter-inch-thick end plate (block) with a doubler to accept the screw/end pin might work just fine and lighten the guitar a little bit.

I'd love to have this explained to me.

Thanks very much.

Author:  Colin North [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 2:41 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

I normally use mahogany faced birch ply about 14 mm total thickness, tapered at the top of course.
Present or future owners may want an end-jack, and I like to think there's enough strength to resist the odd knock on it.

Author:  bluescreek [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 5:46 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

they need to be thicker than 1/4 in for sure the torque of a strap pin will split that over time.
I think minimum thickness is 5/8 in

Author:  phavriluk [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 9:38 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

One of the most fixated ideas I've encountered in guitar conversation has been the strap pin. Seems to get a whole lot of genuflection when all that's needed to avoid its drawbacks and threats to the well-being of the instrument is a screwed-in strap attachment. Hence my question about end blocks. I have the idea that there's a cart in front of that horse.

Author:  bluescreek [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 9:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

even with a screw that is enough to crack it
I have been inlaying plywood into my tail block for years
you can't see it from inside the guitar and I make it about 3/4 wide 1/2 in thick
that supports the end block very well. Even a screwed in pin will split a tail block if it gets dropped

Author:  phavriluk [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 10:00 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

All true, John. That's what plywood and crossgrain laminations are for. Nice to get the advice and observations of a professional. Thanks.

Author:  Clay S. [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 10:40 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

I use 12 mm baltic birch plywood for end blocks. I have seen where some people end it between the linings, but I still glue it to the top and bottom plates.

Author:  SteveSmith [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 11:23 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

Clay S. wrote:
I use 12 mm baltic birch plywood for end blocks. I have seen where some people end it between the linings, but I still glue it to the top and bottom plates.


I do exactly the same.

Author:  SteveSmith [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 11:28 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

Clay S. wrote:
I use 12 mm baltic birch plywood for end blocks. I have seen where some people end it between the linings, but I still glue it to the top and bottom plates.


I do the same thing. Works well.

Author:  phavriluk [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 11:30 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

Add one more to the chorus...

Author:  Dave m2 [ Fri Oct 09, 2020 11:33 am ]
Post subject:  Re: end block dimensions

High quality plywood, approx. 50 mm wide 15 thick, scalloped down to the lining thickness. The width gives plenty of support to the sides particularly if using a wide tail insert. Dave

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