As with anything worth doing well, upgrading, or what we call “hacking your axe” requires planning, knowledge, the right tools, safety and a backpup plan. Your guitar may be your prize possession or it might be a cheap beginner axe you’re trying to make sound and play better. Either way following these basic guidelines can help make your axe hacking experience enjoyable, safe, and more likely to get the desired outcome; a guitar that plays and sounds better.
Planning
As with any project you need a plan. At Hack My Axe we recommend that you start ONE upgrade project at a time. Don’t try to do it all at once. If you’re like most of us, even an inexpensive axe has sentimental value. Plan your upgrade by doing your research that the part you want to swap or install will actually fit in the body style of your guitar, or better yet was made for your guitar. Once you’ve read the reviews and consulted your friends and chosen the appropriate part, pick a time when you won’t be distracted by other tasks. Get all your tools, the part your installing, and maybe even a friend as an extra pair of eyes and hands.
- Research the correct part for your body style
- Set aside time to do your upgrade where you won’t be distracted
- Collect the right tools for the job
- Have a friend help you or at least be there for moral support
KnowledgeThere’s nothing like knowing what you’re doing before you do it. You wouldn’t trust a Dr to do surgery on you if he never read a medical book (and hopefully graduated from medical school) so don’t start hacking your axe until you’ve researched how difficult your particular upgrade is. Look on YouTube and search the web and of course check HackMyAxe.com to find videos and information on how to perform the upgrade you are attempting. Once you’re set, do yourself a favor. Read the Manual, TWICE. If you’re confused at all, Stop and read it again or call the company for assistance.
- Look for videos and sites describing how to do the upgrade you’re attempting
- Read the manual until you feel comfortable you’re ready
The Right Tools
Gather the right tools Before you start your guitar upgrade project. Don’t try and substitute a tool, get the correct tools. Using the wrong tools will lead to fustration or worse, a ruined guitar.
- Get the right tools for the job Before you start your project
Safety
Despite what you may think any project that involves tools, wire, wood, metal and razor sharp sting tips can quickly lead to disaster if you’re not careful. Some upgrades might involve drilling, sanding, routing or wiring. As mentioned before, follow the instructions from the manufacturer to the letter. Use common sense and think about your safety and that of the patient. (your guitar). It’s always a good idea to wear safety goggles. Be sure the guitar is on a non-slip surface. You can find non-slip, non-abrasive surfaces at Home Depot for a few dollars. Those hot new pickups won’t sound quite as sweet if your guitar has an unintended scratch on the back.
- Follow manufacturer instructions
- Wear appropriate safety gear
- Protect your guitar from unexpected spills, bangs and drops
Keep a record
As you make changes to your guitar, it’s essential that you document everything you do. Be sure to note the date, what changes were made, and what parts were used. Also, label any spare spare parts so that, if you need them in the future, you know where they came from and what they were used for.
A backup plan
Finally if after you’ve done all of the above and you’re still a little nervous about taking tools to your guitar, wait a day and be sure. If you’re still unsure Call a Professional. That’s what they are there for. If you get part way through the job and something is just not going right, take it to a professional. The idea is to make your guitar sound and play better.
When all is said and done hacking your guitar can be a rewarding experience and bring you a better appreciation of what an incredible instrument a guitar is. All it requires is a little planning, knowledge, the right tools, safety and if all else fails, your local pro.
Happy Hacking!
